Initially it was intended to have night racing at Turffontein from October last year, but the planned installation of lights was delayed by a trainer’s objection to night racing at the venue and the liquidation of the contracted mast supplier.

In the interim the costs of the project spiralled from R35 million to R50 million and, in consultation with the Racing Association, it was agreed to review how best the proceeds arising from the termination of racing’s usage agreement at Newmarket could be spent for the benefit of the industry.

This review included an investigation into an all-weather racing surface and reducing the cost of the night racing project through lighting only one of the two tracks at Turffontein and different lighting mast designs.

While this was ongoing, the Phumelela board confirmed that every effort should be made to introduce night racing at Turffontein if it could be accomplished within the original budget.

This has proved possible as a result of various factors, notably a drop in the price of materials, lighting only the standside track and a unique lighting mast design.

Given the unique nature of the lighting masts, Phumelela decided that it was important that the Racing Association (RA), which represents racehorse owners in Phumelela racing regions, approve the aesthetics of the new design before proceeding.

To this end a temporary replica of the lighting masts was erected on the Turffontein infield and, after inspecting the mast, the RA has given the green light to the new design.

The generators and luminaires were purchased some time ago and the installation of the lighting masts will now continue. If everything goes according to schedule, it should be possible for the first night race meeting at Turffontein to take place this October.