The cool hills of ‘Little England’ came alive once again as the season of horse racing commenced last weekend. The Royal Turf Club (RTC) racecourse was filled with celebrations as the richest horse racing festival in the country unveiled amidst much excitement and enthusiasm. The revamped turf amidst a serene backdrop of blue mountain ranges added more glamour to the event this season. ‘Naadro’ and ‘Flame’ performed toe-tapping tunes to entertain the crowd throughout the event. 

Races 

Seven races were conducted and the winners walked away with attractive cash prizes and elegant trophies. The categories included the following ; 

· Dashmesh Stud Farm Cup 
· Sporting Times Cup 
· The Blackpool Hotel Trophy 
· RTC Prestige Cup 
· Ministry of Plantation Industries Cup 
· RTC Festival Cup 
· RTC Alpine Hotel Cup 

Entertainment and fellowship continued as ladies and gents danced away to baila music performed by ‘Flame’. 

Speaking to the Daily Mirror Life, some spectators had this to say: 

“I came from Australia and this is the first time that I am here at a racing festival in Sri Lanka. It was quite fascinating to see all spectators enthusiastic about who would win. The climate too is absolutely amazing.” – Sally 

“These races are very different to those in Australia. There, there is a huge crowd and many would come to socialize. Also I love this country atmosphere.” – Debra 

“I loved the entertainment and the races too were quite interesting.” – Mary Jane 

“This is the first time that I came to watch these races. It was quite interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed it.” – Sashini 

“The races were really good. I loved the entertainment and the climate.” – Amanda 

“I enjoyed it a lot.” – Jessie 

“As a first timer I think it was quite interesting to see such enthusiasm among the crowd. The climate and entertainment too was superb. I hope to visit next time as well.” – Hasitha 

“The event was well organised and I thoroughly enjoyed it.” – Vindya 

“As somebody living in Nuwara Eliya I should tell that this was one of the best races that I have ever been to. After the RTC took over they have made sure that everything is perfectly done. Hats off to RTC for a good show!” – G.N.A Johnson 

“Good organising, good entertainment.” – Denver 

The Daily Mirror Life also spoke to the Mayor of Nuwara Eliya, President of RTC and a few horse owners to listen to their views about this year’s races. 

“During last year and this year we were able to see some good races. I should especially extend my gratitude to RTC for revamping the racecourse and introducing some standard to this prestigious event. We can now accommodate more people, especially locals and ensure that this is continued in years to come.” – Mahinda Dodampegamage, Mayor of Nuwara Eliya 

“I have never come across a race like this in my life. The winners couldn’t believe the gifts, the amount of money that we gave them. We are going to have more races and influence the sport.” – Suranjith Premadasa, President, RTC 

Horse Owners 

“I am so glad to be a part of RTC. Actually the club has done so much and we treasure their service. I am quite overwhelmed over today’s victory and I would like to thank the jockeys, trainers and the stable staff for extending their support.” – Deepthika Jayakody, Winner of the RTC Prestige Cup and the Ministry of Plantation Industries Cup 2016 

“The turf is looking nice and it was a fairly well attended event. We hope to see some good races in the coming years.” – Anura Delgoda 

“The event was well organised and hope that these standards will be maintained in future as well.” – Chandana Obeysekara 

“The RTC has done a great deal and we would like to wish them the best.” – J. R. S Irugalbandara, Winner of the Blackpool Hotel trophy 

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe 
Photographs by Kithsiri De Mel