Preparations underway for KMTC Boxing Day Horse Race Meet
By Samuel Whyte
Kaieteur Sports- In an exciting lead-up to one of the biggest events in the local sporting calendar, horse owners and their teams are diligently preparing for the renowned Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Boxing Day horse race meet, scheduled for December 26th.
The club, located at the picturesque Bush Lot Farm in Corentyne, Berbice, has already made significant strides in its preparations, showcasing a venue primed to impress attendees and participants alike.
Mrs. Chan Kennard, the matriarch and honorary president of the club, expressed optimism as preparations unfold. Several horse owners and sponsors have eagerly voiced their intent to contribute to the electrifying atmosphere planned for the day.
With nearly 60 years of passionate involvement in horse racing, Mrs. Kennard remains a respected figure in the sport, having witnessed its evolution from the early days at Durban Park to its current prominence.
Recognized as the premier horse racing facility in the country, the KMTC boasts all necessary requirements to ensure a top-tier racing experience.
Excitement builds as horses are set to compete for an impressive pool of over six million dollars in cash trophies and other enticing incentives.
Seven thrilling races are on the day’s agenda, promising an exhilarating day of competitive action that racing fans won’t want to miss.
The feature event will showcase animals categorized as C 1 and lower racing over a mile, with a remarkable winner’s purse of $1.2 million along with a coveted trophy awaiting the champion.
Another highly anticipated race will see horses classified as F and lower, alongside E non-winners vying for a significant top prize of $600,000 and a trophy across a distance of 6 furlongs.
Competing in the 6 furlong race, H1 and lower animals will battle for a first-place prize of $350,000 plus a trophy, adding another layer of excitement to the lineup.
Meanwhile, J and lower animals will race for $300,000 and a trophy over the same 6 furlong distance, intensifying the competitive spirit on the track.
An opportunity for K non-winners and L open horses will unfold as they compete for a prize of $250,000 and a trophy also over 6 furlongs.
For L-class horses that have yet to secure a win, an exciting chance awaits them with a race over 6 furlongs for a winner’s reward of $200,000 and a trophy.
The grand finale will feature Guyanese-bred 2-year-old maiden animals sprinting over 5 furlongs, competing for a reward of $250,000 and a trophy, marking a thrilling conclusion to the Boxing Day meet.
This event is not just significant for the racing community; it stands as one of the most prestigious meets organized by the KMTC, drawing attention from far and wide.
Outstanding jockeys, esteemed trainers, and top stables will receive recognition through trophies and accolades, graciously supported by businessman Ramesh Sunich from Trophy Stall Guyana.
For those interested in joining the festivities or seeking more information, contacts include Basil Bactowar at 661-7815, Fazal Habibulla at 657-7010, T. Jagdeo at 618-7278, or Isaac Dalloo at 689-0629, as well as any executive member of the KMTC.
Bugle time is set for 12:30hrs.
(Preparations underway for KMTC Boxing Day Horse Race Meet)
Related
**Interview with Mrs. Chan Kennard: Preparations for the KMTC Boxing Day Horse Race Meet**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mrs. Kennard. With the KMTC Boxing Day horse race meet just around the corner, how are preparations going at the Kennard Memorial Turf Club?
**Mrs. Kennard:** Thank you for having me. Preparations are going exceptionally well! Our team has been working diligently to ensure the venue is not only ready but also an inviting space for all attendees. There’s a tangible excitement in the air as we prepare for this annual highlight in the local sports calendar.
**Editor:** It sounds fantastic! Can you tell us more about the significance of this event for both the club and the participants?
**Mrs. Kennard:** Absolutely. The Boxing Day race has almost 60 years of history at KMTC, and it symbolizes the culmination of dedication from various horse owners and teams. For the participants, it’s not just about competition; it’s about tradition, community, and the spirit of sportsmanship that brings everyone together. We’re thrilled to offer a prize pool of over six million dollars, which speaks to the caliber of the event.
**Editor:** Seven races are scheduled for the day, which must be exciting! What are some of the standout races you’re expecting?
**Mrs. Kennard:** Yes, we have seven exhilarating races lined up, but the standout event will undoubtedly be the feature race for horses categorized as C 1 and lower, racing over a mile. The winner will take home a remarkable $1.2 million, along with a trophy that is highly coveted among competitors. This race tends to attract the best horses and offers a thrilling spectacle for the fans.
**Editor:** That’s a significant prize! How have horse owners and sponsors contributed to the event this year?
**Mrs. Kennard:** We’ve had incredible support from horse owners who are truly passionate about the sport. Many sponsors have stepped up, eager to enhance the atmosphere of the event through various promotions and offerings. It’s heartening to see this level of enthusiasm, especially in difficult times. Their support really helps us ensure a memorable day for everyone involved.
**Editor:** what would you say to encourage fans to attend this year’s event?
**Mrs. Kennard:** I would say don’t miss out! The Boxing Day meet is not just about horse racing; it’s about experiencing a thrilling day out with family and friends. With seven exciting races, great company, and the opportunity to witness the best horses in action, it’s bound to be an electrifying atmosphere. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to Bush Lot Farm and making this event one to remember!
**Editor:** Thank you, Mrs. Kennard. We’re excited to see how the event unfolds!
**Mrs. Kennard:** Thank you for the opportunity to share! We hope to see everyone there!