Expressions of interest are open for entities, local and international, over a new project to upgrade the facilities at the racetrack in Marsa as well as to maximise the venue’s financial potential.

Parliamentary Secretary for Sport Chris Agius told reporters yesterday that the aim of this project is to improve the standards and make the venue run by the Malta Racing Club one of the best in the region.

“There’s huge potential in the racecourse and the standard of local events will improve as we would be able to stage international races and other big competitions locally,” he contended.

Making Malta a hub for horse racing and other related sport will benefit the racetrack and its environs immensely due to an in-creased exposure on the international scene.

Agius also pointed out that “the project must be of good quality and in line with local, European and international standards to help the Maltese economy grow and boost sports tourism, in particular.”

He noted that the geographical location of the track is crucial to the plan.

“The development plan can help attract tourists to this part of the island and continue to spread the wealth of one of Malta’s main industries further,” Agius said.

“The history of the track, which goes back to 1868, is very important to the project as the sport is very well received locally.

“We have to see that the racecourse is run on professional lines.

“The current main structure in place needs to be improved upon but the works taken out on the area must not disturb the local racing calendar.”

Even if an international company is involved, the Malta Racing Club will still be responsible for the coordination of the events, registering the riders and horses as well as the day-to-day duties involved in the running of the place.

The racecourse, which only stopped functioning during the Second World War, was renovated in 1981 with a stand that can take 2,000 spectators.

Submissions for the new project may be deposited at the Privatisation Unit. Closing day for expressions of interest is October 30.

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