Sanjay

Santissimo: The Rising Star of Indian Racing Santissimo, a 3-year-old bay colt, has emerged as one of the most promising racehorses on the Indian circuit, captivating the racing community with his impeccable performances and stellar pedigree. Trained by the renowned Pesi Shroff and owned by a distinguished group of racing enthusiasts, including Mr. Gautam Lala, Mr. Kishore P. Rungta, Mr. Joydeep Datta Gupta, Mr. Saleem Fazelbhoy, and Mr. Achuthan Siddharth, Santissimo is writing his success story one race at a time. Pedigree Analysis Santissimo hails from a lineage of champions. Sired by Gusto (GB), known for his speed and agility, his bloodlines trace back to the legendary Oasis Dream and Green Desert, both significant contributors to European racing history. His dam, Beldon Hill (USA), enriches his pedigree with strong American influences, ensuring a perfect blend of stamina and speed. This combination has given Santissimo the versatility to excel across different distances and conditions. Racing Career and Recent Triumph Santissimo has delivered an extraordinary performance on the track, amassing an impressive record of 9 runs with 7 wins and 2 second-place finishes, showcasing his consistency and dominance. His most recent and perhaps most significant victory came on Sunday, December 22, 2024, when Oisin Murphy piloted him to a triumphant win in the HPSL Indian 2000 Guineas (Grade I) at Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The race further solidified Santissimo’s status as a leading contender in Indian racing and displayed his capability to perform at the highest level under world-class jockeys. Other Notable Wins •Pune Derby (Grade I): Santissimo claimed victory in October 2024, demonstrating his dominance over middle-distance races. •Bangalore Summer Derby (Grade I): In August 2024, he showcased his endurance and class with a stellar win. •Mayor’s Trophy (Bangalore): His earlier victories, including this one in July 2024, laid the foundation for his growing reputation. What’s Next? With earnings of over ₹2.1 crore and an enviable racing record, Santissimo’s career trajectory points to further success in the classics. Backed by an elite team of owners, a master trainer, and his natural talent, he is poised to challenge the best in the upcoming Indian classics, including the highly anticipated Indian Derby.

Indian Horse Racing: A Promising Future Rooted in Innovation and Tradition Indian horse racing, with its rich 200-year legacy, has been a sport of grandeur, excitement, and cultural significance. However, like any historic institution, it has faced its fair share of challenges, particularly in recent years. The imposition of a steep 28% GST on betting activities led to declining revenues, forcing racing clubs to think creatively about sustainability and growth. Despite these hurdles, two of India’s most iconic institutions—the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) in Mumbai and the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) in Kolkata—are leading a revival. Through innovative strategies, modernized facilities, and a focus on engaging younger audiences, they are ensuring a vibrant future for horse racing in India. The New Wave of Change at RWITC The RWITC, synonymous with the glamour and excitement of horse racing, has undertaken bold steps to secure its future while preserving its heritage. Revitalizing the Mahalaxmi Racecourse One of the most significant projects at RWITC is the modernization of the historic Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The club is upgrading its infrastructure with plans for a state-of-the-art clubhouse and enhanced spectator facilities. These improvements aim to attract a new generation of enthusiasts while retaining the charm that has defined the venue for decades. Strategic Partnerships for Longevity In an innovative move, the RWITC collaborated with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to hand over a portion of its land for the development of a public theme park. This mutually beneficial partnership resulted in a 30-year lease renewal for the club, ensuring horse racing continues to thrive at this iconic venue. RCTC: Engaging the Youth, Expanding the Appeal While RWITC is modernizing its facilities, the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) is focusing on attracting younger audiences and diversifying its offerings. Paddock Lounge: A Hub for Young Members The Paddock Lounge, a chic and contemporary space, has become a popular hangout for members under 40. Combining the thrill of horse racing with a modern social atmosphere, the lounge is designed to introduce a younger demographic to the sport, fostering a new generation of racing enthusiasts. Pickleball Courts: A Sport for the Youth In a nod to emerging trends, RCTC has introduced pickleball courts on its premises. This fast-growing sport has captured the attention of young athletes and sports lovers, making the club a multi-recreational hub. By incorporating activities like pickleball, RCTC is expanding its appeal and creating a community space that goes beyond racing. Blending Tradition with Innovation Both RWITC and RCTC are blending their rich traditions with modern innovations to ensure sustainability: •Digital Transformation: Initiatives like online betting platforms and live race streaming are reaching tech-savvy audiences and boosting revenues. •Community Events: From themed race days to family-friendly activities, these clubs are making racecourses a destination for more than just the sport. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future The future of Indian horse racing looks promising, thanks to the visionary efforts of RWITC and RCTC. By modernizing facilities, fostering community engagement, and embracing innovation, these clubs are charting a sustainable path forward. Initiatives like the Paddock Lounge and pickleball courts at RCTC, and the modernization of Mahalaxmi Racecourse by RWITC, are just a few examples of how the industry is adapting to contemporary demands while honoring its heritage. With these bold steps, horse racing is not just surviving—it is thriving. As younger audiences engage with the sport and clubs diversify their offerings, Indian horse racing is poised to reclaim its position as a celebrated and cherished pastime for generations to come. @shivens @sanjay_facets @sunil57 @indiaracedotcom @RaceMirror @rwitcmumbai #horseraces