Singapore’s storied horse racing scene is set to conclude on 5 October 2024, with the last race ever to be held at the Singapore Turf Club (STC).
After 182 years of horse racing in the country, the final event will commemorate the legacy of the sport and honor those who have contributed to its history.
A Storied History of the Singapore Turf Club
The Singapore Turf Club, founded as the Singapore Sporting Club in 1842, has played a pivotal role in the local racing scene. Its first race took place at Farrer Park in 1843, before it moved to Bukit Timah Racecourse in 1933.
STC became known as a premier venue, with events like the Singapore Gold Cup drawing big crowds.
In 1999, the club moved to Kranji Racecourse, featuring world-class facilities and a 30,000-seat grandstand.
However, despite its rich history, declining attendance in recent decades led to the government’s decision to close the club. Ironically, the months leading up to the final race have seen a resurgence of interest, as thousands of fans have attended the races, sparking debate about whether the sport could have been revitalized with better promotion.
What’s Next for the Kranji Grounds?
Following the closure of the STC, the government has announced plans to redevelop the 124-hectare Kranji site. The Ministry of National Development (MND) is exploring potential uses for the land, including housing and recreational facilities. In a press release on 5 June 2023, MND shared details of the closure.
This decision is part of a broader initiative to meet Singapore’s future land-use needs in a holistic manner. Although horse racing will come to an end, betting on overseas races will continue through Singapore Pools, ensuring that local fans can still engage with the sport from afar.
Export of Racehorses Planned
Approximately 700 racehorses from the club’s horse racing operations are set to be exported. The goal is to complete the process by 2026, according to Second Minister for Finance and National Development, Indranee Rajah.
The club houses 38 privately owned livery horses, stabled for a fee at its racecourse. The Ministry of Finance (MOF) and Ministry of National Development (MND) assured that racehorse trainers and owners would receive support for horse maintenance and exportation.
A Fitting Farewell
The final race day at the Singapore Turf Club will not only feature the Grand Singapore Gold Cup but also a celebration of the rich history of horse racing in Singapore. Scheduled for Saturday, 5 October 2024, the event will showcase 10 commemorative races that pay homage to the club’s 182-year legacy.
Fans can expect an emotional farewell filled with nostalgia. The day will include a photo exhibition and a Heritage Walk, allowing attendees to reflect on the club’s storied past.
As the club transitions to new developments, the final races will remind the community of the sport’s significance. Fans gather with mixed emotions to witness their sport’s last gallop.
More details about the event can be found at the Singapore Turf Club’s official website.
Watch a video here:
@singaporeturfclub 🏇🏻🎙️Interview with horse trainer at Singapore Turf Club Part 1 – Discover what it’s like to work with horses as a profession! ✨
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