Indian Turf Invitation Cup in Bangalore on March 5

Bangalore, Mar 2 (UNI) Indian racings's most glamorous and prestigious Indian Turf Invitation Cup will be held here on March five, Turf Authorities of India Chairman Marilingaiah announced today.

Talking to newspersons here, he said the Indian Turf Invitation Cup was being held here after a gap of five years. ''It is something special this time. It returns as the richest weekend the Indian Turf has ever seen.'' Mr Marilingaiah said the weekend races, with a total stake money of more than Rs 16 million, would begin with the Hindu Sprinters Cup and the Stayers Cup (both Grade I), scheduled for March four. While the Hindu Sprinters Cup, sponsored by The Hindu Group of Publications, would be a test of blinding speed to determine the fastest throughbred in the country, the Stayers Cup would be a gruelling test for stamina.

He said the 'Indian Racing Awards' would be presented on March four to honour the champions of the Indian turf for their performance between November 2004 and October 2005. 'Hall of Fame Award' would also be presented the same day for outstanding contribution and achievement on the turf.

The Major P K Mehra Memorial Super Mile, sponsored by Usha Stud and Agricultural Farm in conjunction with the Bangalore Turf Club, was scheduled for March five.

Besides, a contest of skill was also being organised on both the race days. Those nominating the first four horses in the correct order would become eligible for prizes -- a Maruti 800 car and five TVS Victor Edge motorcycles for The Hindu Sprinters Cup and a Maruti 800 and five Hero Honda Pleasure Scooters for the Indian Turf Invitation Cup.

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