Turf Authorities of India to honour Zavaray S. Poonawalla

The Turf Authorities of India (TAI) have decided to honour Zavaray S. Poonawalla, a leading racehorse owner and breeder, with the Legend of Indian Horse Racing Award at the Racing Excellence Awards ceremony on October 24.

The award recognises Poonawalla's decades-long contribution to Indian racing as a breeder, owner, sponsor and benefactor. The award was proposed by the Mysore Race Club and approved by the TAI chairman.

Poonawalla's contribution to the sports during tough financial time post COVID 19 pandemic was significant.

In 2022, Poonawalla stepped in to support Royal Western India Turf Club by contributing towards proze money to help maintain competitive stakes that were severly affected in the aftermath of the pandemic.

In his recent contribution, he introduced a shared-sponsorship initiative with the turf clubs and provided financial support to Bangalore Turf Club to safeguard the stakes amid falling revenues.