Fans, jockeys, and champions unite as the Champ de Mars roars back to life.
If today's dry run at the Champ de Mars is anything to go by, the Mauritius Turf Club Jockey Club (MTCJC) is firmly on track for a thrilling comeback of horse racing in Mauritius. A vibrant crowd, electric performances, and a festive atmosphere made this much more than just a test day it was a celebration of a sport reborn.
Hundreds of racing fans flocked to the historic grounds to witness the four mock races, each one met with cheers as if it were the real thing. From the thunder of hooves to the roar of the stands, the passion and nostalgia were palpable. It was clear: the people of Mauritius have been eagerly awaiting the return of this cherished tradition.
Among the standout moments was the triumphant return of The Gatekeeper, who cruised past Lunafaction in the final straight under the watchful eye of Subiraj Gujadhur. His father, the legendary Rameshwar Gujadhur, could not hide his emotions as he greeted racegoers and basked in the warm applause of an audience that had clearly missed these thrilling encounters.
Top jockeys Manoel Nunes and Donavan Mansour were also in the spotlight their presence a major drawcard for fans and a testament to the international flair the MTCJC is bringing back to the track. The crowd's reception left no doubt: Mauritian racing is back on track.
Beyond the action on the course, spectators were treated to an all-new experience. The freshly renovated stands, upgraded restaurants, and newly introduced family area and food court drew high praise. For many, it was their first glimpse of the new and improved Champ de Mars and the reviews were overwhelmingly positive.
"We wanted to test every aspect of our operations from the sound systems and photo-finish technology to crowd management and hospitality."
But what we witnessed today surpassed expectations," said Santosh Gujadhur, President of the Mauritius Turf Club. "It was emotional, energising, and a proud moment for everyone who's worked tirelessly to bring racing back where it belongs."
Security, logistics, and hospitality services all passed with flying colours, reassuring stakeholders that the MTCJC is ready for the real show: the official season opening on Saturday, 2 August 2025, featuring the eagerly anticipated Fashion Heights Duchess of York Cup.
Today's successful dry run also demonstrated the strong coordination between trainers, jockeys, MTCJC staff, and volunteers all united by a common goal: reviving the heart of horse racing in Mauritius.
With 245 horses, including 118 newcomers, and a calendar packed with exciting fixtures, this new chapter promises to blend heritage with modernity, competition with entertainment, and tradition with innovation.
As the sun set over the Champ de Mars, one thing was certain: horse racing is no longer a memory it's a movement.
