Independence Day horse race a major draw - By Neha Madaan I TNN
Posted on - 15 Aug 2011
Independence Day horse race a major draw
By Neha Madaan
TNN
Pune: This one is rated at par with The Derby for the crowd it pulls. The Independence Day Trophy stands tall at the Pune Race Course every August 15, amidst galloping horses, fervent jockeys and generous patriotic spirit.
“It is said that the race was initiated to celebrate the feeling of jubilation that arose from India’s newfound independence back in 1947,” said 72-year-old race enthusiast Sarita Wakalkar, who has been part of Pune’s race culture for 55 years. “Puneites value Independence Day, for it is this city that cradled many a freedom fighter during the struggle for independent India. And thus, 64 years later, every racing aficionado makes it a point to attend the Independent Day Trophy Race, so he/she could feel the exultation that we felt back in 1947. The trophy reminds them of the day the country kissed freedom,” said Wakalkar.
Like Wakalkar, there are others who have fond memories attached to the day this race is run. Horse owner and breeder Khushroo Dhunjibhoy, whose horse Thanda won the race in 2009, considers the race to be the most popular days in Pune. “It is one of the richest races in India and attracts a competitive and large field of horses. Most importantly, it is linked to the Independence Day and people like to celebrate the spirit of free India on the day. It is more like a day of celebration,” said Dhunjibhoy.
“It is the only race in which older horses can win huge prizes and stake their claim. The Independence Day is also one of the highest attended days at the race course, where one can expect over 12,000 people. The patriotic energy in the air, along with the flag hoisting ceremony in the morning and the Artillery band playing the national anthem and patriotic tunes add to the magic,” said Jehan Sataravala, who has been attending the races since 25 years.
Vivek Jain, chairman, Royal Western India Turf Club, added, “The Independence Cup is one of Pune’s most traditional races. It draws a huge attendance, as visitors from Mumbai come for the long weekend. The prize money has been upped to Rs 1 million — the richest handicap race in the country.”
A 64-year-old tradition
The Independence Trophy was first run on Saturday, August 16, 1947. It was originally a 6-furlong race for Indian horses in Class III. The first race was won by a chestnut Indian mare ‘Futurity’, owned by Sir Sultan Chinoy. The winner’s purse was Rs 8,430. Over the years, it was converted into a race for Class IV horses, run over a distance of mile and a quarter.
