Royal Western India Turf Club

The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) at Mahalaxmi in Mumbai is one of the oldest racing institutions in Asia, operating since 1800 under the patronage of the Bombay Presidency and later as a private racing club. The Mumbai track — a right-handed oval set in the heart of the city, surrounded by the towers of the financial district — hosts the Indian Derby, the Indian 1,000 Guineas, and the Indian 2,000 Guineas. The winter season (November–March) is the major racing season at Mahalaxmi, with summer racing shifting to Pune. Indian racing operates under a unique legal framework — pari-mutuel betting is legal at the racecourse, with off-track betting through licensed totalisator agencies. Prize money has increased significantly in recent years as Indian racing has sought to attract better-quality international horses.