Having plans to follow the Pune racing season, then what better place to start than with Racebuzz? We cover horse races in Pune, such as the very famous Indian St. Leger and others, held under the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC). Alongside this, we break down every card with precision and clarity, highlighting Pune race entries, runner form, key contenders, and important race-day updates throughout the season. Be it about results or about any jockey’s information, you get it all. Not only that, but you can even dig into our archives and explore tidbits. So, stay ahead of every stride with Racebuzz only!
The Pune horse race course was built in 1830 at its present cantonment location, quickly becoming a hub of British military and social life in the region. In 1864, its governing body, originally known as the Bombay Turf Club, was renamed the Western India Turf Club (WITC), marking an important milestone in organised horse racing in western India.
Over the decades, Pune strengthened its racing legacy with the introduction of prestigious events such as the F.D. Wadia Trophy in 1976 and the renowned S.A. Poonawalla Multi-Million, both of which elevated the city’s standing in Indian horse racing.
In 2002, the Western India Race Horse Owners’ Association launched the WIRHOA racing awards, further enhancing Pune’s reputation as one of India’s most historic and celebrated horse-racing destinations. Today, it continues to attract racing enthusiasts, owners, and tourists from across India, carrying forward nearly two centuries of equestrian heritage!
The races are held every Saturday and Sunday. So, without a doubt, get up and make your weekend the most happening one as you get to see The Pune Derby, The S.A. Poonawalla Million, and so many others. As you visit the course in person, you can enjoy the excitement up close, with live commentary and a lively atmosphere right by the track.
Every February, it also serves as the venue for the annual sales of 2-year-old thoroughbreds. It’s like an event that is loved by owners, breeders, and racing enthusiasts who want to see tomorrow’s racehorses before they hit the track. If you are also one, you wouldn’t want to miss this one, right?
Inside the course, you get to enjoy a variety of dining experiences, including the scenic Turf Club House Restaurant serving continental and Indian cuisine with relaxing racecourse views. The venue also features popular stalls that offer quick bites such as chaat, pani puri, sandwiches, and biryani on race days. During special events such as Pune Oktoberfest, visitors can also enjoy themed food and beverage experiences, including German specialties.
The racing at RWITC Pune takes place from July to October, on Saturdays and Sundays. On the day of the race, entry to the first enclosure is ₹50, while members pay ₹200 at the entrance, which includes both the entry fee and mobile phone badge charges.
If you are a non-member who is entering the members’ enclosure, you need to pay ₹500 on race days and ₹300 on off-course race days. Also, if you wish to take your mobile phone inside, an additional ₹150 badge charge applies for the first enclosure.
Entry charges depend on the area you choose to access.
The club does not operate according to normal visiting hours. Rather, the timing of access depends on the scheduling of races and events. The races are run on fixed dates within the race season, with several races taking place throughout the day.
In order to make sure that you have a better idea of when to come for the races, it is advised to look up the race schedule beforehand.
The Pune race course is roughly 5–6 km from downtown Pune and 12–13 km from Pune Airport. From Pune Junction, head through the Camp area via Bund Garden Road. From the airport, take Nagar Road into the Cantonment. The Empress Garden on Bund Garden Road is your clearest landmark as the course sits right next to it. No need to worry as cab and auto services are easily available from all major points in the city. Make sure to check Pune horse race tips while you’re on your way, on Racebuzz, because by the time you reach the course, you’ll already know your runners.
All set to be a part of every race and follow every result? Keep browsing Racebuzz!
The Pune Derby, RWITC Gold Cup, Independence Cup, and Southern Command Cup are the season’s top highlights.
It governs all Pune racing, including licensing jockeys, trainers, and organising the full seasonal calendar.
You can access the Life, Lady Stand, Service, Local Corporate Membership, and many others.
Racebuzz features dedicated jockey and trainer profiles with their total wins, form, and full performance trend data. You can easily check it out there.
Yes, non-members can enter designated enclosures by purchasing entry tickets on race days and enjoy live horse racing at the Pune race course.
