Horse racing action will return to the Rising Sun Turf Club next weekend as the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing committee gears up to host its highly-anticipated Guyana Cup horseracing event.
Banks Beer Manager Brian Nedd (centre) with the Championship trophy along with Nasrudeen Mohamed (second right), in the presence of Director of Sport, Christopher Jones; Banks DIH managers and other event organisers
As such, corporate sponsor Banks DIH has exercised its corporate duty by jumping on board the event for the twelfth year in succession.
Banks DIH Public Relations representative Troy Peters has expressed elation on behalf of the company. “If you follow horseracing, you’ll know that this is the biggest event and Banks DIH started (sponsorship) when it (the tournament) was very small and we have grown at least to see this tournament grow and we’re quite pleased to be associated with it once again,” he happily stated.
The event has also received the support of the National Sports Commission, through the Director of Sport, Christopher Jones who stated: “At these events it fosters what the Government has set out to achieve and that’s social cohesion.”
The Director of Sport went on to explain that he was pleased with the tourism sector also coming on board. “This horserace meet is one of the biggest activities that we’ve had in Guyana. And of course, it doesn’t only provide a forum for horse owners, but persons who will be betting on horses. But essentially, it provides a forum from which tourists can come to Guyana. That’s why I’m happy that the tourism sector has come on board,” he stated.
The horse race organisers have promised action like never before, highlighting that the event has grown considerably over the years with a crowd almost reaching 12,000. Noting that there will only be a few changes to the event, organiser Nasurdeen Mohamed Jr explained how the quality of the Guyana Cup would be bettered.
Patrons can expect a lively commentary of every race, thanks to a Trinidadian commentator travelling to Guyana to take up the post. The more-than-capable announcer has worked with the Bel Monte and Triple Crown in the past.
Additionally, a series of big screens will be set up around the venue so as to ensure that viewing is more accessible and comfortable for patrons.
“Tourism has so many widely-ranging events; for this event, it will be sports tourism. Culinary tourism will also be highlighted,” Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) President Ramkumar Mitra noted in his remarks.
Subsequently, the Jumbo Jet organisation’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Jafar Ali expressed his gratitude to all the persons and entities that have given them their support.
With over $15 million in prizes, the largest purse for next Sunday’s meet will be to the tune of $3.875 million for the 1600m race.
A $2 million purse is also lined up for the 1100m 3-year-old derby race. Patrons are being encouraged to come out and support the ever-growing tradition.
