Horseracing in Mauritius has reached the crossroads and with the new season commencing on Saturday 4 April all eyes will be on the impact of the changes, innovations and austerity measures introduced.
Horseracing on the island is 203 years old this year but typical modern day afflictions, coupled with a poor image and perceptions of corruption, have seen the sport come under severe pressure.
MTC Chairman, Mr Jeenarain Soobagrah said he was well aware that there will be great challenges this year and that they were committed to improving the situation following receipt of the report of the Commission of Inquiry on horse racing in Mauritius.
A policy of zero tolerance in all areas, including discipline and compliance with regulations, has been instituted.
The appointment of former Chief Stipe Alain Rousset is seen as a major positive and monthly feedback meetings with all stakeholders, including the Prime Minister’s Office, would be held.
A meeting with the Gambling Regulatory Authority is expected soon to address many issues of common interest.
A drive to attract and retain sponsors, was also seen as crucial.
The introduction of a season ticket for all age categories, similar to the one that already exists for over 60 year olds, has also been planned.
Barrier draws will now be performed after exercise withdrawals to ensure fairness.
Jockeys will be allowed to go up to 1 kg overweight provided this is brought to the attention of the Racing Stewards at the time of declaration. This will be indicated in the official programme.
Administrator Donald Payen, who led the project on good governance last year, said that two subcommittees had been established within the MTC Board.
One was ‘good governance’ and the other ‘audit and risk’ and they would be chaired by respected professionals Alain Noël and Pierre de Chasteigner of Mee, respectively.
The MTC Chairman also appealled to journalists to provide the necessary support to get the public back to the Champ de Mars and to get racing on its feet again.
Sherman Brown
Simon Jones, Sherman Brown and Darryl Holland have been licenced for the upcoming season.
Jones, whose trainer licence application was recently declined will act as assistant-trainer to Shaliesh Ramdin, with Sherman Brown confirmed as his jockey.
Darryl Holland will ride for Vincent Allet.
Other jockeys licenced include champion Cédric Ségeon, Derreck David, Brandon Lerena and Davy Bonilla.
