The RTC Sports Tourism Day 2024 held on 24th February marked the first event of the year at the Royal Turf Club, Nuwara Eliya. With thrilling races and competitive spirits, it was an exciting day for both participants and spectators alike. The esteemed panel of judges, including Dr. Ineke Ann Pitts and Noa Fernando, ensured fair play and accurate assessments throughout the races.

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As the Chief Guest, Chalaka Gajabahu, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, graced the event with his presence, emphasizing the significance of sports tourism in promoting the cultural and natural heritage of Sri Lanka.

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The day featured four exhilarating races, each showcasing the talent and prowess of both horses and their riders. Street Cat, owned by Mr. Hasaranga Jayarathne & Mrs. Paba Jayarathne and trained by S. V. Mathialagan and ridden by P Vikram clinched victory in the Yes 101 Challenge Trophy, demonstrating remarkable speed and agility over the 1070-meter distance.

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Queens Hall, another entrant from the stable of Mr. Hasaranga Jayarathne & Mrs. Paba Jayarathne, emerged victorious in the Hill Rise Villa and Stables Trophy, under the skillful guidance of jockey P. Vikram.

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Here and Now, owned by Mr. & Mrs. Edwards and trained by S. D. Mahesh, triumphed in the RTC Sports Tourism Trophy, showcasing endurance and determination over the challenging 1400-meter course.

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Finally, Crack of Dawn, also owned by Mr. & Mrs. Edwards and trained by S. D. Mahesh, secured victory in The Sunday Times Supper Challenge Trophy, with jockey P. S. Kaviraj showcasing impeccable riding skills.

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Overall, the RTC Sports Tourism Day 2024 was a resounding success, celebrating the fusion of sportsmanship, tourism, and the equestrian heritage of Sri Lanka.

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Yes 101 Challenge Trophy 1070 winner Street Cat owned by Mr. Hasaranga Jayarathne & Mrs. Paba Jayarathne, trained by S. V. Mathialagan and ridden by P. Vikram.

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Hill Rise Villa and Stables Trophy 1070 winner Queens Hall owned by Mr. Hasaranga Jayarathne & Mrs. Paba Jayarathne trained by S. V. Mathialagan and ridden by P. Vikram.

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RTC Sports Tourism Trophy 1400 won by Here and Now owned by Mr. & Mrs. Edwards trained byS. D. Mahesh and ridden by L. Ravi Kumar.

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The Sunday Times Supper Challenge Trophy 1400 won by Crack of Dawn owned by Mr. & Mrs. Edwards trained by S. D. Mahesh and ridden by P. S. Kaviraj.