Mumbai: While racing fans are hoping that hot favourite Miracle will win the country’s greatest race, the Indian Derby, at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on Sunday, host Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) is also aiming to pull off a miracle by delivering a great spectacle, despite huge financial constraints.
With the Covid pandemic hitting its financial resources hard for nearly two years now, RWITC is managing to conduct the current Mumbai horse racing season on donations from the city’s racing fraternity where from horse owners and members to its employees have come forward to contribute, with the major part coming from the Poonawalla brothers—Cyrus and Zavaray.
So far, the major part of the season was conducted behind closed doors, but the Maharashtra government has now allowed public presence at the racecourse in its latest Covid relaxations.
The RWITC now has a big challenge to deliver on the Indian Derby day at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse—known across the country for its unmatched spectacle of glamour and high-octane racing action— on Sunday, despite not having enough money at its disposal.
“It is indeed a miracle to be able to showcase, in a limited way because of the Covid restrictions, a bit of what Derby day is known for in the city of Mumbai. Where people from every walk of life, not necessarily racing fans, assemble to watch top quality racing action and glamour,” Shiven Surendranath, media chief of the RWITC, told TOI on Saturday.
As part of strong austerity measures, annual shows such as pre-Derby night party, draw ceremony and Breakfast with Champions, have been done away with.
To encourage people to come in the best of attire, there’s an award as an incentive to be given to the best dressed male and female. The presence of the rich and famous from Bollywood and the corporate world will add to the glamour as usual.
Even for racing fans, various contests such as Race Ka Raja and other added amounts in betting collections are on offer. Food stalls and a carnival-like atmosphere will further add to the festivities.
“We hope that even with all the issues facing us, we can give racing enthusiasts something special on Derby day. There will be nothing more satisfying than seeing fans leaving the club with pleasant memories,” said Shiven.
