By Anne Das
Race day at the Perak Turf Club (PTC) drew a strong turnout last Sunday as the Meru Valley Resort Derby 2026 brought racing enthusiasts, invited guests and newcomers together for one of the club’s feature races of the season.
Around 90 invited guests attended the Derby afternoon, most of them hosted by title sponsor Meru Valley Resort. The group included business partners, associates, staff and family members who turned up in full force. Their presence brought fresh energy and many visitors to the Turf Club.
There was a sense of curiosity and anticipation as guests explored the grounds, watched the horses up close and began exchanging early predictions. Conversations flowed easily as old acquaintances caught up and new connections were made.
The day began with a luncheon hosted at the David Jeyaratnam Lounge, where guests were welcomed by Chairman Dato’ John Lim together with members of the club’s committee. Seated at the main table with him were sponsor representatives Mr Lim Keng Hoo and Mrs Regina Lim of Meru Valley Resort.
Speaking about the collaboration, he said, “We are very happy to see this partnership continue. Dato’ Lim Si Boon and his team have brought many guests to experience race day at the Perak Turf Club, and it is wonderful to see everyone enjoying the afternoon here almost like one big family.”
From the spacious, air-conditioned private lounge, guests were able to follow the races in comfort while enjoying spectacular views overlooking the entire track, widely regarded as one of the finest vantage points in the club.
Lunch and high tea accompanied the afternoon’s programme for the invited guests, with catering prepared by Morel Restaurant Ipoh.
A total of 10 races were scheduled for the day at the Ipoh track, offering spectators a full afternoon of racing action. The Meru Valley Resort Derby was the featured race of the day.
The highlight arrived with Race 7 – the Meru Valley Resort Derby 2026, a Classic Feature Race of the Perak Turf Club run over the 2000-metre course and carrying a RM200,000 prize purse.
In a powerful finish down the home straight, Horse No. 8, Guru Fight surged ahead to claim victory in the Meru Valley Resort Derby 2026.
The winning horse is owned by Maximus Racing Stable and trained by Simon Dunderdale. Jockey K A Brewer delivered the winning ride, guiding Guru Fight confidently across the finish line.
Following the race, the prize presentation took place trackside. Representing the event sponsors, Mrs Regina Lim presented the trophies to the winners.
Guests continued to watch the remaining races while conversations carried on across the lounge and viewing decks. For many first-time visitors, it was their first glimpse into the world of horse racing in Ipoh. And a memorable afternoon with plenty of stories to take home.
The Meru Valley Resort Derby 2026 was a true celebration of racing and camaraderie at the Perak Turf Club, leaving many guests already looking forward to the next race day in Ipoh.
For sponsorship enquiries:
Companies interested in sponsoring future feature races may contact the Perak Turf Club to explore opportunities that include hosting invited guests on race days and gaining brand visibility through race telecasts across Asia.
📞 05-254 8084 / 05-254 0505 or 📧 general@perakturfclub.my
