HT Correspondent
JORHAT, March 6: The 143rd edition of the Jorhat Races began on Friday at the historic Jorhat Gymkhana Club ground. The Jorhat Races are considered one of the oldest horse racing events in Assam.
In the early years of the competition, Europeans were seen participating with their high-breed horses, which they usually used for their work purposes. Before 1947, the race meet used to be held in February and its schedule coincided with the annual camp of the Assam Valley Light Horse.
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Following India’s independence in 1947, Missing riders and ponies were invited to participate in the races and since then the Jorhat Races have continued without interruption. For more than 75 years, Missing jockeys have been riding in their distinctive style—bareback and without saddles or homemade stirrups.
The continuity of the Jorhat Races has been ensured by the stewards of the races, members of the Jorhat Gymkhana Club, tea planters, the armed forces and the government.
Over the years, the Jorhat Races have remained a vibrant annual event and continue to hold a place of pride in society.
On the first day of the races, a total of 10 races were held, which were conducted over distances of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 furlongs and prizes were awarded to the winners after each race.
