By Anne Das
The Perak Turf Club (PTC) is undergoing a profound transformation, setting a new course that blends tradition with modernity. Established in 1886, the club has a rich heritage in horse racing, and its new developments promise to enhance this legacy, attract new audiences, and provide state-of-the-art facilities. This grand plan is echoed in the club’s fresh motto: Perak Turf Club – More Than Racing.
The impending closure of the Singapore Turf Club presents unique opportunities for Perak Turf Club. Chairman Dato John Lim sees this closure as a chance to attract new members and visitors. “With fewer turf clubs in the region, we can position ourselves as a premier destination for horse racing enthusiasts,” he explains. The club aims to expand its influence and enhance its offerings, capitalising on the increased interest from former members and fans of the closed clubs.
Dato John Lim’s vision for the Perak Turf Club is ambitious yet deeply rooted in tradition. The goal is to evolve the club, making it a vibrant hub for horse racing as well as other activities. The new developments are aligned with this vision, aiming to create a dynamic space that appeals to both long-time members and new visitors.
At their recent EGM, The Committee unveiled a proposal for new facilities to be housed under the Public Stand, exclusively for members. These amenities include a swimming pool, gymnasium, badminton courts, squash courts, and tennis courts. More excitingly for visitors, the club is also planning to open select parts of its premises to the public, offering upscale dining options, themed experiences, all-day dining, banqueting, and a sports bar geared towards attracting younger patrons.
With these additions, the Perak Turf Club aims to evolve into more than just a horse racing venue, transforming into a vibrant “Country & Sports Club.” The inclusion of these amenities, coupled with dining and leisure activities open to the public, promises an enhanced experience for all visitors. Moreover, the installation of solar street lights will ensure that the club remains bustling with activity from morning until night, transforming into a central hub for both sports and leisure activities in the community.
The new developments, costing around RM6.5 million, are expected to have a positive economic impact on the local community and the broader region of Perak. The club aims to create sustainable opportunities that will boost the local economy and provide long-term benefits.
Preserving the club’s rich heritage is paramount. The design of the new facilities prioritizes seamless integration with the club’s historical charm, ensuring that the legacy of the Perak Turf Club is not only preserved but also celebrated as we move forward.
On the racing front, the PTC is actively enhancing its offerings. Efforts to boost horse population and elevate the quality of races are underway. With a clear trajectory in place, the club is determined to achieve financial stability, aiming to break even by 2025.
As these developments unfold, the Perak Turf Club is poised to emerge once again as a vibrant focal point of the community. With optimism and momentum, the club gallops towards a new era of transformation, inviting all to join in its exhilarating journey ahead.
