Racing will return to the famous Champ de Mars in Mauritius this week, with a four-race ‘mock meeting’ to be held on Saturday ahead of the official return to racing on August 2.
Champ De Mars, which has hosted racing for over 200 years, last held a meeting last October, but a new entity, the MTC Jockey Club Ltd, has taken over as the sole licensed horse racing organiser on the island.
Saturday’s dry run will simulate real racing conditions across four races, testing starting procedures and timing systems as well as photo finish equipment, steward coordination and spectator movement.
“Horse racing is part of the history of Mauritius and a great social event for all who take part. The relaunch is a key moment in preserving our heritage, and we are determined to ensure its success,” Santosh K. Gujadhur, President MTC and Chairman MTCJC, said.
Eighty-nine horses have arrived on the island as part of the new racing season.
Australian company Racing and Sports Pty Ltd (RAS) will play a key role in the revival, having developed a database of all registered thoroughbreds in Mauritius, including past performances, handicap marks, trainers, jockeys, owners, and handlers.
“Working with Racing and Sports to bring Mauritian racing back to life in such a short timeframe is remarkable. We’re excited to build a first-class racing product for both domestic fans and international audiences,” Gujadhur said.
In addition, the MTCJC website has been fully redesigned to feature track workouts, pre-race articles, and racecards.
“Having previously worked with the MTC and experienced racing at the incredible Champ de Mars racetrack, this was a great opportunity for Racing and Sports to support the relaunch of horse racing with a complete end-to-end solution,” Brent Dolan, Managing Director UK/Europe at Racing and Sports, said.
“It’s been a collaborative journey, and we’re proud to contribute our creativity, agility, and experience. This is just the beginning - and together, we aim to put Mauritian racing back on the global map.”
Australian-based Brazilian jockey Manuel Nunes recently confirmed he would travel to Mauritius for the season to ride for the Gujadhur stable.
The Straight News Desk
