Horse racing enthusiasts in Mauritius will have to exercise patience as the start of the much-anticipated Mauritius horse racing season has been pushed back to July. This delay comes despite the excitement surrounding the return of the historic organizer, the Mauritius Turf Club (MTC). Originally slated for June, the opening of the Mauritius horse racing season is now contingent upon the completion of necessary renovations to the racecourse.
One of the primary reasons for the postponement of the Mauritius horse racing season is the condition of the racetrack. The MTC has reported that the previous management, People’s Turf (PTP), left the Champ-de-Mars racetrack in a state of disrepair. Since gaining exclusive access to the venue on November 22, the MTC has assembled a team led by Shyam Peenith to rehabilitate the track.
Horse Racing Track Rehabilitation Efforts
One of the main reasons for the delay is the poor condition of the racetrack. The MTC reported that People’s Turf (PTP), the previous management, left the Champ-de-Mars in bad shape. Since gaining control on November 22, the MTC has assigned a team, led by Shyam Peenith, to restore the track.
The grass track has improved, but the small training track remains in terrible condition. Currently, it resembles hardened concrete instead of a proper training surface. Lacking sand, it is unfit for morning workouts. Until the track is restored, racehorses will stay in their stables, affecting their conditioning for the Mauritius horse racing season.
Experts estimate that at least 1,500 tons of sand are needed for repairs. However, the MTC is hesitant to start, as heavy rains could wash away the sand.
MTC President Santosh Gujadhur assured stakeholders that work on the training track will start by the end of the month. The goal is to have it ready for training by March. After consulting with trainers, the club confirmed a July start for the Mauritius horse racing season.
New Arrivals and Training Challenges
Despite the delay, 32 new horses are expected to arrive this weekend. After quarantine in Chamarel, some will head straight to Champ-de-Mars for training.
However, the lack of an available track has forced trainers to find alternatives. Some have moved their horses to private centers for workouts. Others, unfortunately, have had no such option. Since October 6, many horses have remained confined to their stables. This extended inactivity poses a serious risk to their physical condition. It also highlights the urgent need to restore the small track.
Potential Horse Racing Delays Ahead
Another issue could further delay repairs. Mauritius will celebrate its 57th Independence anniversary and 33rd Republic anniversary soon. If the flag ceremony takes place at Champ-de-Mars, work on the track may be suspended. This could disrupt the MTC’s plan to prepare for the Mauritius horse racing season.
With track conditions, new arrivals, and upcoming national events, the MTC faces many challenges. The club remains committed to providing the best training conditions for the horses. However, the clock is ticking as they aim for the July deadline.
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