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Wednesday, 16 March 2022 01:56 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
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Dr. Rashid R. Byramji
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The name Dr. Rashid R. Byramji may sound alien to most Sri Lankans but in the wonderful world of horseracing, he is a legend. His passing away at the age of 87 comes as a shock to many within the fraternity of the sport and Dr. Byramji’s contribution to horseracing is immense.
Well respected globally as a champion trainer, who even gained accolades from the Queen Elizabeth II, Dr. Byramji is a fatherly figure not only to the Indian horseracing industry, but as well as to Sri Lankans, notably the Royal Turf Club.
“Dr. Byramji visited Nuwara Eliya to help RTC build up its character as well as the Racecourse. If one compares the development of the facility and the manner in which RTC conduct, Dr. Byramji played a key role during our initiative in 2016,” recalled RTC Treasurer Nisitha Rupasinghe.
To honour his contribution and support towards Sri Lankan horseracing, RTC has dedicated a special memorial race on the 19 March 2022 at the Racecourse in Nuwara Eliya. This race will be the main attraction on the race day on Saturday, when the Horse Racing Festival 2022 flags off with the RTC Spring and Summer Cup. The race day includes five races beginning from 11.30 a.m after each 30 minutes, with the final race schedule at 1.30 p.m followed by the trophy presentation ceremony.
“RTC is proud and honoured to pay tribute to one of India’s great son, who is well known as the ‘horse whisperer’ of Indian Horseracing. Dr. Byramji’s family members will be present at the event. We are sure, with this season opener event, RTC can conduct a successful Horse Racing Festival,” Rupasinghe added.
After the race day on 19 March, RTC has lined up the three important race days for April. The RTC Magic Million Cup will be held on 3 April followed by the prestigious RTC Governor’s Cup on 15 April. For the first time in history RTC will collaborate with Sri Lanka Army to initiate the RTC Army Commander’s Cup on 23 April.
