The Hyderabad Race Club (HRC) has a long and interesting past in horse racing. It has been around for more than a hundred years. Since its founding in 1868 as the Hyderabad (Deccan) Races, this club has been an important part of India's turfa hundred years. Since its founding in 1868 as the Hyderabad (Deccan) Races, this club has been an important part of India's turf. In this piece, we'll talk about the HRC's fascinating history, its famous races, and what it's done for Indian horse racing.
Origins of Racing in Hyderabad:
Moula Ali Racecourse: In 1868, races were held at the Moula Ali Racecourse, which was a few miles outside of the city. This is when betting on races began in Hyderabad.
Stiff Competition: At that time, the races were just as good as those in other well-known places in India. The Englishmen who lived there organized and took part in the races.
Shifting to Malakpet:
The Ruler's Influence: In 1886, the racetrack moved from Moula Ali to Malakpet at the request of H.H. Nawab Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, Nizam VI. He wanted the racetrack to be close to his home.
Flourishing Racing: From 1886 to 1896, Malakpet was a great place for races because Nizam VI liked them. During this time, the races were run by the Royal Calcutta Turf Club.
Development of the Current Racecourse:
Land Acquisition: The South India Turf Club and the growth of the sport led the Nizam to sell 126 acres of land to the HRC in 1956 for a small amount of money.
Realization of Dreams: It took the HRC five years to turn the land into a racetrack. The first races were held at the Malakpet Course, which has a mile-and-a half track, in 1968.
Addition of the Winter Track: The Hyderabad Winter Races now take place on a second winter track that was added in 1976.
HRC's Unique Position:
Complete Ownership: The HRC is the only Turf Authority in India that owns the whole racecourse, including the race course building, tracks, stands, professional quarters, stables, and parking lot.
Dedicated Service: The HRC is dedicated to helping the racing community, and it works to improve this royal sport in the country all the time.
Premier Races and Contributions:
President of the India Gold Cup: The President of India Gold Cup is a weight-for-age race that was started by the HRC in 1970. It has become one of the most important races in the country.
Independent Turf Authority: In 1977, the HRC became the fifth turf authority in India. This made it even more important in the racing world.
Invitation Cup: The HRC was very important in making the Invitation Cup the most famous classic race in Indian racing. They brought funding to Indian racing, which made the event more prestigious and interesting.
