LAHORE, Nov 3: A ticklish card of nine races featuring a cup race has been laid out marking the ninth Lahore Winter Meeting to be held at the Racecourse on Sunday.

Meanwhile, owners, breeders and trainers have welcomed the re-election of Tariq Aziz as Lahore Race Club chairman for the eleventh consecutive term.

Talking to Dawn, representatives of various sections of the sport said his leadership has stretched credibility not only to the sport but the club as well, making it an instrument to serve interests of the entire racing industry.

They said racing is determined on the progress in getting proper price for its products and under the policy pursued by the LRC thoroughbred market is thriving and continuing on the record-breaking way.

A good thoroughbred fetches a record price of over two million rupees.

They were of the view that although the recent increase in prize-money did not match the price-hike of articles of daily life, feed, fodder and veterinary care of horses yet it has satisfied horse-owners to a great extent.

Trainers said holding races once a week has given a new look to the racing programme in an effort to try to answer the needs of owners and trainers.

However, the punters while welcoming the progress made by the club during last ten years turning it an all weather facility and award of perks to owners demanded strict vigilance on the vested interest, which targets favourite horses. This has been tarnishing the image of the genteel sports.

The first race will be held at 12.00noon.