TIMES NEWS NETWORK
Mumbai:Other centres in the country may have taken a lead in betting collections owing to higher taxes imposed by the Maharashtra government but when it comes to top class racing, Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) is simply miles ahead. The programme announced for the Mumbai Season starting this Sunday is testimony to that.
The season which is spread over 44 exciting days and runs till April 29, offers increased prize money, superb infrastructural facilities, top class horses and jockeys in action and carnival like atmosphere with lots of food and entertainment.
“We have pulled out all stops to showcase the Club and the sport in all its glory and we are looking forward to a splendid season of sport and entertainment,” said Vivek Jain, chairman RWITC.
Prize money: The advertised prize money of 15 crore, is the highest for a single season in the country.
Sponsorships: The RWITC continues to lead the way in attracting record sponsorships for its events with contributions touching nearly Rs 7 crore!
Live telecast: The tripartite agreement between the RWITC, Bennett Coleman and Procam, enters its second year. The television blitzkrieg, headed by the well known expert Jim Ramsey, will present racing as never before- international compering, improved camera work, better graphics, to showcase the might of racing as a great visual sport.
Racing program: In addition to the four classics, the racing program is replete with graded races, millions and multi millions. A record 30 races offering prize money of 1 million or over- 12 for juveniles, 11 for older horses and 6 for horses of the classic age, in addition to a Class 4 race.
Boost for owners: A 5% increase in the performance bonus will be offered to owners, which now totals 25%. As this incentive is paid without deduction, the benefit to the owners is greater; the performance incentive will total 2.5 crore for a year. In addition, for the first time ever, six races have been reserved for owners who have a share in five or fewer horses to reward smaller owners.
Tribute to Jagjit Singh: In memory of the legendary ghazal singer Jagjit Singh, an innovative race has been framed in his honour. It will be a million race, and has been kept for a Class IV handicap and reserved for small owners only.
