The Stables
In the 19th century when racing was in the early stages of its development, horses entered for an event were transferred from the owners’ stables to Port Louis the day before and sometimes even on the race day itself. For better control training facilities were built next to the racecourse. The stables officially registered with the Mauritius Turf Club could use these facilities for training purposes. Traditionally, the Stables were named after the nominators or managers. At the beginning of the 20th century, about five stables were in competition. The oldest in Mauritius is the Gujadhur Stable which has been in existence for more than a century. From the mid 1980s, eight to ten stables were in competition and seven freelance trainers competed throughout the whole racing season. Today there are twelve stables and about 400 thoroughbreds compete during the racing season. At the end of their racing career in Mauritius, the horses are transferred to riding schools.
The Track
The Champ de Mars track follows a very selective right hand oval path. It is 1298m in circumference and 11m to 13m wide - it is a relatively small track. Races are run on distances from 990m to 2400m. The Draper’s Mile (1500m), was named after the “father” of the club who actively promoted horse-racing on the island. The track has been constantly improved since 1812 to offer horses a better galloping surface.
A maximum capacity field of eleven horses is allowed to race on the track which is meticulously maintained to avoid any trauma to the horses, water retention is minimal even in periods of heavy summer rainfall.
To provide race goers with adequate information about the track, a probe metering unit (penetrometer) gives the exact state of the track at all times.
New distances have been introduced in the last few years and the track has been modified accordingly. In 2008 the winning post has been moved some 25m so as to extend the home straight, It has also been widened.
The Mauritius Turf Club
Prices :
Access to the Plain is free. Those wishing to attend the races in the stands will have to bring an admission ticket at the following prices:
Stall :
Men's Rs. 200
Ladies and children under 15 years old: free
Crossed out card : Rs 350
Members Lounge : Rs. 800
Members Lounge & Jockey Club : Rs. 1000
Paddock : Rs. 1500
Mountain bleachers: free access, except for the Maiden - Rs 25.