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Many of us only know Sarawak Turf & Equestrian Club as the proprietor of the Special Cash Sweep or Big Sweep (大萬) lottery. They are one of the ‘Big Three’ gaming companies here in Sarawak, competing with Magnum 4D and Sports Toto.

Although the 3D+1 lottery is their main source of revenue, they also organize horse racing and the obligatory betting activities that comes with it. Their racetrack is right here in Kuching.

Situated around 10km away from Kuching City, the Turf Club’s racetrack can be seen right next to the main road going from Kuching to Kota Padawan. Just opposite the racetrack lies the 8th Mile Penrissen Army Camp.There is no fee for admission into the grand stand building. They even allow children to go in, so the spirit of gambling can be instilled on our future generations at a tender young age. Brilliant.

There were TVs up on the wall showing live footage of the current run on the track. Several counters were opened for the punters to get their betting tickets.For the record, I didn’t bet. And that’s not my hand holding a ticket. Honest.

The grand stand looked pretty run down. Wooden seats are worn out by the weather and the metal rails are all rusty. The whole place could use a fresh coat of paint too. This place sure ain’t no Ascot.

The tracks seemed somewhat maintained. At least they still trimmed the grass.

They have a manual scoreboard, updated only when the ‘pakcik’ have finished his tea break. Very old school.

The crowd was sparse but they still cheered enthusiastically for the steed of their choice as the horses galloped down the final furlong.

It wasn’t exactly a photo finish as the winner won by a mile. From the reactions of the disappointed punters, it’s safe to say that the biggest winner that day was none other than the Turf Club itself.Kaching kaching! $ucker$.