BA Sea View Horse Racing Club secretary Mohammed Nazakat Jan has raised concerns over the management and rising costs associated with the Ba horse racing multipurpose course.
Speaking during the Fiji Media Association Town Hall session in Ba, Jan questioned why the facility initially built for the people of Ba under the previous FijiFirst Government was no longer being run in collaboration with the Ba Town Council.
“The previous government funded the horse racing multipurpose course and told us it was for the people of Ba. Before, the Ba Town Council organised the races with us, and it was entertainment for horse owners, most of whom come from farming backgrounds,” Jan said.
He said disputes within their club had led to a split, with some members forming a new group.
“In the first year, we had nine races. The second year, we managed only five, and this year, we’ve held just four races so far,” Jan said.
He also expressed concern over the increase in ground fees from $500 to $810 asking if the government could intervene to make it more affordable for horse owners.
In response, Ba Town Council Special Administrator Chair Moshim Khan said part of the fee goes towards operational and compliance costs.
“Out of the charge, $110 goes to labour for OHS compliance.
“I’ve spoken to the team and asked them to work with the Council to support horse owners. Most of these horse owners come from cane farming background. The Council is willing to help if they collaborate with us.
Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Aliki Bia also clarified that horse racing is currently not a registered sport in Fiji.
“Horse racing is not registered under the Fiji National Sports Commission (FNSC), which means it cannot receive direct funding.”
The Ministry focuses on grassroots sports, while funding for registered sports is channelled through FNSC each financial year. Once horse racing is registered, it will be eligible for future government support.
Meanwhile, Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services, Hon. Filipe Tuisawau, assured that the Ministry of Youth and Sports would assist in formalising the Horse Race Association’s registration to ensure the sport and its participants receive proper recognition and support.
