The Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) has taken the drastic step of cancelling the remainder of its prestigious winter racing season. This unprecedented decision comes in the wake of a confirmed outbreak of the highly contagious and fatal equine disease, glanders, within its stables.
Immediate Action Following Positive Tests
The club's management was forced to act swiftly after receiving confirmation from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal. Two horses stabled at the BTC premises tested positive for glanders. This diagnosis triggered an immediate and comprehensive response to prevent further spread of the dangerous zoonotic disease.
In accordance with the mandated protocols, the affected horses were humanely euthanized. Furthermore, a strict quarantine has been imposed on the entire stable area. Movement of all horses, both in and out of the BTC facility, has been completely suspended. This lockdown is a critical measure to contain the outbreak and protect the broader equine population in the region.
Major Racing Events Postponed
The cancellation directly impacts some of the most anticipated events on the Indian racing calendar. Notably, the Bangalore Derby, originally scheduled for Sunday, April 6th, has been postponed indefinitely. This premier race is a major highlight for owners, trainers, and racing enthusiasts.
Additionally, the cancellation encompasses all other races set for the first weekend of April. The club has officially stated that the 2023-24 winter racing season is concluded with immediate effect. This announcement has left the racing community in Bangalore and across the country in a state of disappointment and concern.
Ongoing Monitoring and Future Steps
The BTC is now working closely with veterinary and government authorities to manage the crisis. The focus is on rigorous monitoring of the remaining horse population within the quarantined stables. Health surveillance will be intense to detect any new cases at the earliest.
While the winter season is conclusively over, the club has indicated that a review will determine the future course of action. The timing and feasibility of the upcoming summer racing season now hang in the balance, dependent entirely on successfully containing the current glanders outbreak. The safety and health of the horses remain the absolute priority for the Bangalore Turf Club administration.
