KARACHI, Aug 12: The Karachi Race Club (KRC) made a mockery of weekly announced races by abruptly cancelling the event scheduled for Sunday owing to public pressure.

“The races have been cancelled on instructions of president of the club, Syed Sadruddin Shah, acting secretary of the club, Syed Ali Akbar Shah Rashdi, told Dawn on phone the other night.

Earlier, when Dawn contacted the secretary at the time of filing the field to know whether the races were on, he answered in affirmative.

It may be mentioned that there was a long tradition not to hold races during the last 10 days of Ramazan but according to sources, a KRC steward opted in favour and got the nod of chairman followed by issuance of the handicap.

The racegoers raised a hue and cry and the KRC eventually succumbed to their pressure by cancelling the races.

According to secretary, the races will now take place on the third day of Eid. If Eid falls on Sunday, the races will be held on Tuesday and if Eid falls on Monday, the races will be staged on Wednesday.

A new handicap will be released for the next meeting, the secretary added.—Anwar Zuberi