Mauritius is preparing for a fresh start in horse racing. The Mauritius Turf Club (MTC) President, Santosh Gujadhur, gave updates last Friday. He confirmed that the racing season will begin in mid-July. The Duchess of York Cup will headline the opening event.
The club plans many improvements. These include repairs to the tracks, changes to staffing, and the arrival of new horses. In addition, updates involve jockey insurance, facility upgrades, and a possible totalizator license.
Training and Early Plans
Trotting races resumed on March 20. However, the sand training track is not ready yet. Repairs are ongoing. Gallops on the smaller Port-Louis track will restart in the first week of April.
Meanwhile, the MTC plans 20 race days this season. It also aims to build 12 new stables to support the rising number of horses. Therefore, infrastructure development is a key focus.
Horse Population on the Rise
“We expect the first race by mid-July, with the Duchess of York Cup,” said Gujadhur. He is hopeful about the season ahead. Right now, about 300 horses are present. Another 80 will arrive by late April. Then, 150 more are expected in the next few months.
Despite import issues and VAT delays slowing the early process, Gujadhur remains confident. “The future of our horse population looks bright,” he said. As a result, race quality should improve.
Changes in Staff and Structure
Staff changes are already happening. Stephan de Chalain remains with the MTC. Furthermore, two new people have joined the MTC Jockey Club Ltd. Sébastian Poupard now leads operations. Bhavish Boyjonauth manages infrastructure and projects.
The CEO post is still vacant. Nevertheless, “We are talking to several qualified candidates,” Gujadhur noted.
Jockey insurance has improved as well. It was a problem in the past. Now, the club offers full coverage. “We have secured insurance for jockeys,” he said. Consequently, riders can now focus more on performance and less on risk.
Facility Repairs and Safety
Track repairs are a top priority. Shiam Peenith, who handled track maintenance before the PTP era, is back. “We are rebuilding the track from the ground up,” said Gujadhur.
The jockey lodges needed urgent repairs. Fortunately, Servansingh Jadav & Partners offered help at no cost. Their support made fast progress possible.
Broadcast equipment also needs attention. “Cables were damaged over the last two years,” said Gujadhur. “We must rebuild the whole studio.” Moreover, many devices are outdated and no longer work.
The studio repair could cost between Rs 20 million and Rs 30 million. As a solution, the MTC has reached out to Alain Gordon-Gentil of the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation for help.
Stronger Financial Outlook
The MTC’s financial health is improving. Bertrand Rivalland and Philippe Hardy now manage the club’s finances. Thanks to their work, they expect the MTC to break even in two to three years.
Additionally, a totalizator license request is in progress. The club is also in talks with two Tote operators: Automatic Systems Ltd and Global Sports Ltd. These steps could further strengthen revenue streams.
Government Support and Collaboration
The MTC has not yet received its official lease. Still, Gujadhur praised the government’s backing. “We are working well with the Gambling Regulatory Authority,” he said.
Soon, a new framework will define roles between the GRA and the MTC. As a result, operations should become more streamlined and transparent.
A Bright Future for Horse Racing
The Duchess of York Cup will be more than just a race. It will mark a new beginning for horse racing in Mauritius. With better leadership, more horses, and improved tracks, progress is already visible.
The MTC is clearly working hard for a better future. Moreover, fans and industry insiders alike have good reason to feel hopeful.
By mid-July, the gates at Champ de Mars should open again. Fans will return to the stands. Horses will thunder down the track once more. Thus, a proud tradition of horse racing will continue—stronger than ever.
Courtesy of L’Express
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