The RACE is on

Over 60 horses will be seen in action when the newly formed Royal Turf Club (RTC) Nuwara Eliya Horse races commence at 10 30 a.m. today, (March 20) at the re-developed Nuwara Eliya Race Course. With over Rs. 2 million being offered as prize money and entrance to the races being free of charge for the inaugural event, coupled with a line- up of entertainment, which includes the band Misty and a fashion show, it is bound to be an unforgettable event .

The day's proceedings will commence with the unveiling of the plaque, commemorating the inaugural race meeting of the Royal Turf Club - Nuwara Eliya.

The first race will commence at 10.30 a.m. , with the last taking place at 8.00 p.m. A total of 8 races will be run, with the day's proceedings culminating with the presentation of trophies.

For the first time anti-doping procedures too would be introduced at the races while a photo finish system too would be installed to ensure accuracy to determine the winner.

In addition, for the first time since independence, three foreign judges have been invited to take command of the entire racing event. President of the newly formed Royal turf Club Nuwara Eliya, Suranjith Premadasa said these steps have been taken in a bid to ensure fair play and bring back the glamour and flair of the races which has been absent for several decades. Secretary RTC, Lucille Dahanayake said, "With horse racing now gaining in popularity, several past owners who had virtually given up the sport are once again entering the event. We also expect several foreign jockeys to take part as well."

Wood said they will conduct 8 races, with the highest prize money of Rs. 585,000 and cup being offered for the first five places of the RTC Premier Cup Class 1, stakes 1600M . The Gamini Dissanayake Memorial Cup along with Rs. 482, 500 plus a trophy will be presented to the first five place getters of this Class 2, Stakes 1,400M race. The Class 3 (1,200M)and 3 year old Maiden stakes 1,100M races would each be awarded Rs. 387.500 plus a trophy to the winner with prize money distributed to the fifth placed.