Second phase of Royal Turf Club Races a great success

By Shannon Nicholas reporting from Nuawara Eliya

The second phase of the Horse Races of the April Horse Racing Festival carried out by the newly formed Royal Turf Club (RTC) came into a conclusion yesterday at the Nuwara Eliya Racecourse. The event also indicated the commencement of the most anticipated and fun-filled April Season of Nuwara Eliya.  The event was graced by Minister of Plantation, Dr. Lanka Dissanayake and Srima Dissanayake as the chief guests. Suranjith Premadasa, the RTC President, and Committee unveiled the newly refurbished RTC Jockeys room at the Nuwara Eliya Racecourse Royal Turf Club, which had been carried out to facilitate the Jockeys, to commence the day’s proceedings.

Over 35 horses were seen in action yesterday with Alcazaba and Imran Khan owned by Hasanga Jayarathne emerging victorious in the RTC Premier Cup of Class 1 Stakes of SLRs 585,000.  The Royal Turf Club recently concluded their inaugural Premier Cup in which eight races were successfully run in front of a full house at the newly renovated racecourse. This fun filled day out for the whole family had thrilling races, beautiful catwalk fashion and musical acts which will also form a large part of the April festival. 

The revival of the Nuwara Eliya racecourse and the sport of horse racing has generated the much needed employment both directly and indirectly for many people and one of the short-term objectives of the RTC in line with international standards, is recruiting and training people who will be involved in the sport. 

These positions will include jockeys, officials, groomers, administrators and horse trainers. They hope that, at the end of this training period, have individuals who can be gainfully utilized in seeking employment in the industry both locally and abroad. 

By ensuring that the glorious sport of racing is returned to the prestigious position it has held, the RTC will also undertake a drive to attract foreign investment. Headed by CEO Wayne Wood and a dedicated committee the Royal Turf Club also is committed to ensuring that any cruel treatment of horses is brought to a complete halt.