A Bittersweet Finale

As the Singapore Turf Club (STC) prepares for its poignant farewell race on October 5, the legacy of 182 years in horse racing hangs in the balance. Dubbed "The Last Dance," the final event will highlight various periods of the club’s rich history, allowing attendees to relish the moments that defined local racing culture.

The celebration will extend beyond the races themselves, featuring a curated Heritage Walk that chronicles the evolution of the prestigious Singapore Gold Cup. Visitors will also have the chance to admire an exhibition showcasing winning photographs from STC’s recent photo competition, which drew over 200 entries across categories including architecture, flora and fauna, and of course, racing.

“Our main goal is really to let people see the club from a different perspective. There's not just racing,” shared Tan Ren Keat, STC's assistant manager of corporate marketing. His sentiment reflects the overwhelming enthusiasm from the community as they prepare to capture this historic farewell.

R Jayaraju, head of tracks at the STC, has devoted more than two decades to maintaining the race tracks and is fully focused on the significance of this last meeting. “Emotions run very high,” Jayaraju expressed, “but we want to celebrate this event with the rest of the world.”

To honor the club’s long-standing employees, one of the races will include tributes, and staff members were even invited to vote for a special trophy, which will now bear the name of the Singapore Turf Club Trophy.

Due to the overwhelming demand, free admission tickets for the Grandstand Level 1 have been completely redeemed online. However, a limited number will remain available for on-site redemption during upcoming race days leading to the farewell event.

Reflections from the Racing Community

The announcement of the STC’s closure has been met with mixed emotions among jockeys, trainers, and horse owners. Eric Koh, managing director of Equine Sanctuary, described the impending final race as “bittersweet,” likening it to attending a funeral for many in the racing community. “There'll be guests who will be excited, but for us, it’s solemn,” he lamented, reflecting on the loss of 182 years of Singaporean racing tradition.

The equine industry had hoped for a change of course regarding the club’s closure, a sentiment echoed by Koh as he plans for the relocation of horses. “It’s hard to accept, but we have to move on,” he stated, expressing a sense of resignation.

While there are prospects for racing in other countries, the sense of belonging that comes with racing at home is irreplaceable, he noted. “Since the announcement of the closure last year, interest has surged among other Asian countries looking to establish race tracks,” Koh added, suggesting that Singapore's exit could open new conversations in the regional racing scene.

Matthew Kellady, a former jockey and now a work rider at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, shared a personal story about his connections to the STC. “My whole life is in Singapore; it means everything to me,” he said, grappling with the loneliness of relocating away from his family. Despite securing a new job in China, the sacrifices he and many others must make hit hard: “I’ve missed important events—birthdays, milestones—with my family. It’s a very tough decision.”

As the Singapore Turf Club readies to make its final call on October 5, the spirits of those who have cherished the club's legacy will undoubtedly fill the air, creating a powerful atmosphere that celebrates not only the past but also the hopeful potential of the future. Don't miss this monumental event—be a part of history!