The day-night racing scheduled to hit the high road on Saturday, April 18 at the Mahalaxmi race course has generated maximum interest among the racing buffs.  The professionals and the owners too are gung-ho and are looking forward to the racing carnival  which is certain to draw a big crowd, taking into account  that most regulars and a sizeable number of first timers are gearing up for the big new party.

The chairman of the RWITC, Khushroo Dhunjibhoy satisfied with the preparations disclosed that three races in a card of seven to eight events will be held under floodlights, the opening event starting at 4 p.m. in the evening and the final race under lights at 8 p.m. at night.

“The idea is to provide a carnival atmosphere. And the buzz is good. Most members and a majority of railbirds are excited and  are already seeking details of what’s in store, planning a family outing at the course,” said Khushroo pointing out that  elaborate  food counters  and exclusive play area and play stations for kids will  help provide a carnival atmosphere.

“We in our bid to encourage and promote the support are looking to draw crowds making it a one-stop fun exercise and the response to the new exercise is heartwarming,” said Khushroo adding that a lot of corporate and big ticket companies are already warming up to sponsor a lot of races.

Champion trainer Pesi Shroff delighted with the prospect revealed that all the professionals are keen and eager to support the idea which is certain to provide a new dimension to the sport.

“Despite the fact that most trainers have put off many of their horses, effort is on to provide competitive fields and I’m certainly looking ahead to lead a winner under lights, “said the champion.

“It is fantastic initiative and it will bring in the crowd. The attendance, believe me will go up considerably and I will not be surprised if we get to see Derby day crowd on the first week-end,” said Pesi.

“Opening up the carnival, the continental and Indian food stalls, music and play areas for the public at a nominal cost is a great initiative taking into account that the punters are the chief patrons of the game,” said Pesi   

Watching the racing at Royal Ascot and the Dubai racing carnival, most Indian jockeys are delighted with the prospect of parading their skills under lights.  

“It will be a sun, moon and stars, day\night experience for the horses and jockeys.

And this promises to be the future,” said Zeyn Mirza lauding the effort of RWITC  who have chosen to take the lead, confident that it will bring home the desired result.

Most other premier racing centres who at first didn’t subscribe to the idea are now warming up, the feedback garnered from the racing buffs at their centre clearly indicating that racing under lights will be fun and the leisure time carnival will be a big success.

Well the Bajaj group is ready with their lights and the countdown for the showdown at sundown at Mahalaxmi on April 18 has begun.  And the thunder of hooves is certain to provide lyrical ring to what promises to be a game changer.