SARGA.CO – When watching horse racing in Europe or Japan, we often see lush, green grass tracks that look beautiful and elegant. In Indonesia, grass tracks actually exist, for example, at Yosonegoro Racecourse in Gorontalo (±1,600 meters), but in realit,y they are now rarely used for races.
Grass tracks are very different from ordinary grassy fields. They require detailed and intensive care, including regular mowing, watering, fertilizing and aeration (loosening the soil)
In a tropical climate, grass grows fast — but it also gets damaged quickly when horses run at high speed. This means extra manpower and higher costs are needed to keep the track safe and comfortable.
Indonesia has high rainfall, and grass tracks are more prone to becoming slippery or muddy after rain. This can be dangerous for both horses and jockeys during races.
Meanwhile, sand tracks are much easier to manage. Their drainage is better, so water drains quickly, the surface stays more stable, and races can still run smoothly even when it rains.
3. More Durable for Daily Use
Grass tracks need recovery time after being used. Sand tracks? They can be leveled and used again immediately for daily training sessions and the next races.
With the high frequency of use in Indonesia, sand is clearly more efficient and practical than grass.
Does Indonesia Need Grass Tracks?
Even so, grass tracks still have their own unique appeal. Running characteristics on grass and sand are different, and having internationally standardized grass tracks could open opportunities for more varied races and attract international events.
So the question is: is it time for Indonesia to build grass tracks to “level up,” or is it better to maximize the quality of sand tracks that have already proven suitable for the tropical climate?
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