The total value of contribution from sponsors is Rs. 52 lakhs, a new
record, up 63% from last year. The gross prize money advertised is up to
Rs.4.21 crore. We have succeeded in getting several new sponsors in
Bluefolds, Dubai Pegasus, Panchshil Realty, Panoramic Universal, Piaggio
Vehicles, Funtacy Ice Creams and Bavaria. They represent a range of
industries from foods to automobiles, real estate to liquor and
hospitality.
Kumar Builders and Oxford Properties renew their association of last
year, but both with bigger events, each sponsoring Grade 2 races.
The highlight remains the Nanoli Stud Pune Derby, the only Grade 1 race
at Pune, and this monsoon derby has become virtually synonymous with
Nanoli.
The glamour and fashion and fun extravaganza, The S.A.Poonawalla
Million, will be bigger and better promoted this year, with The
Poonawalla Group, as usual going that extra mile to bring in that added
zip to the day.
It will be our endeavor to promote each weekend with a unique feature,
in conjunction with our sponsors with prizes, superior branding, live
entertainment and contests. We want racing's appeal to go beyond its
narrow confines, and draw a much wider audience. We are also working on
ideas to promote non-racing events for our members, such as a Club Nite,
amongst others.
In addition to sponsorships, there will be significantly improved
facilities for members, special guests and the public. A video scope and
a new air-conditioned VIP lounge, both sponsored by the Poonawalla Group
will be ready on the opening day. They fill a long felt void.
Race goers can look forward to more TVs with better odds display, a new
viewing stand for first enclosure patrons, better signage, two new
electronic display boards and the beer lounge and food stalls have been
renovated. Once again, the Poonawalla Group has chipped in with a
magnanimous contribution of about 15 lakhs to part fund this exercise.
The tote, a long neglected area in the RWITC, gets an infusion of life.
There will be new tote windows, 5 to 6 mobile totes, a new dividend
board, and superior efficiencies in tote staff will be noticeable.
Betting will be easier, and faster!
Our superstars, the horses, have a new inner river sand track to work
on, reducing breakdowns and ensuring fewer "rain outs" as occurred last
year.
We hope that racing and the sport will take center stage and the
unsavory episodes that has plagued the Club will either be resolved or
at least be hidden from public glare.
