My first encounter with horses came on my 13th birthday, a surprise gift from my parents in the form of a spirited half-breed. In a decision that thrilled me but mildly irked my older brother, I named the horse ‘Anuk of Firsmead,’- a playful mix of his first name and the name of our beloved former holiday home in Nuwara Eliya. Shortly after, in the late ’90s, I walked into Jayaratne Stables in search of a home for my four-legged companion. What I found was not just a stable, but a revelation: immaculate facilities, on-call veterinary care, internationally trained jockeys, and an air of sophistication that felt almost foreign to Sri Lanka at the time. Even then, Gamini Jayaratne, Chairman, Jayaratne Group of Companies, stood out; not just as a man who loved horses, but as someone quietly building a legacy.
Nuwara Eliya races quickly became a beloved family tradition. We’d gather in the grandstand, cheer on the Jayaratne horses, and soak in the glamour; ladies in elegant hats, the thrum of excitement, and the beauty of a sport that blended grit and grace. More often than not, the Jayaratne ladies; Chamari and Nishara, would sweep the two most coveted fashion titles of the season: Best Dressed Lady and Best Hat. It came as no surprise; their hats were sourced from esteemed London milliners, and their race day ensembles were crafted by renowned British couturiers, meticulously chosen and hand-carried back to Sri Lanka.
Now, as Jayaratne Stables celebrates 25 years of shaping
Sri Lankan horse racing, I caught up with Gamini, Chamari, and Nishara Jayaratne in London, where they were enjoying their Avurudhu holiday, and also marking Gamini’s milestone birthday. On the eve of the 15th of April, tucked away at Maison Estelle in Mayfair, we shared an evening of reflection and laughter before they jetted off to Paris the following morning. What follows is a conversation with the man who has become the beating heart of Sri Lanka’s equestrian world.
I’ve always believed in doing things the right way; with integrity, loyalty, and consistency.
Q Congratulations on your wins; The 2025 Governor’s Cup and the Queen’s Cup. How did it feel to secure both titles in the same year?
It was truly a moment of immense pride and validation. These two titles are the most prestigious in Sri Lankan racing, and to secure both in the same year is not just a win; it’s a milestone in our legacy. It’s a nod to the years of hard work, investment, and passion we’ve put into the sport.
Q What do these two wins mean to you personally and professionally, given your long-standing association with horse racing in Sri Lanka?
Personally, it’s deeply emotional; this sport has been part of our bloodline for over two decades. Professionally, it reaffirms Jayaratne Stables as a leading name in Sri Lankan horse racing. It also reminds us of our responsibility to protect and uplift the future of the sport.
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| Gamini Jayaratne |
Q 2024 marked 25 years of Jayaratne Stables. What has that journey meant to you?
It’s been a journey of commitment. When we started in 1999, the industry was very different. We began with a dream to bring international standards to Sri Lankan racing, and today, we have over 15 racing horses and over 50 horses in total, including breeding and riding horses, the highest number in the country. It’s a proud legacy, and I’m grateful for every milestone.
Q You’ve been a passionate advocate for horse racing for decades. How have you seen the sport evolve in Sri Lanka over the years?
It’s evolved in terms of infrastructure and exposure. But we still face challenges, especially the lack of professional jockeys, as many leave the country in search of better prospects. That’s why we collaborate with Indian jockeys, not only do they ride for our races, but they also train Sri Lankan riders to international standards. Still, without more structured investment, we risk losing the very foundation of the sport.
Q All your horses are imported from renowned stud farms in India. What goes into selecting and managing such a stable?
Selecting the right horse is an art and a science. We work closely with breeders in India, studying bloodlines, health, temperament. Once here, the work begins; training, conditioning, nutrition, and veterinary care. It’s a 24/7 commitment.
The vision was to breed and train champions while setting a gold standard for the sport. Today, with the support of my family, I believe we are living that vision.
Q You were also the Former President of the Sri Lanka Turf Club. Can you tell us about your time there?
The Sri Lanka Turf Club has a history of over 150 years, and I had the honour of serving during a crucial time. We organised nearly six events a year. However, in 2015, the premises were handed over to the Royal Turf Club, who thankfully have continued the tradition. I hope they expand further. To truly elevate racing as a tourism industry, we need more events throughout the year; not just during the April season.
Q Jayaratne Stables is a family name now in the world of racing. What was your founding vision and how close are you to achieving it?
The vision was to breed and train champions while setting a gold standard for the sport. Today, with the support of my family, I believe we are living that vision. My son Hasanga, and his wife Dr. Paba Attapattu-Jayaratne, have been instrumental. Hasanga and Paba’s Queen’s Cup win this year is a testament to that. Our family’s success isn’t isolated; it's a shared pursuit.
Q The Jayaratne family name is synonymous with horse racing in Sri Lanka. Can you reflect on that legacy?
Yes, we’ve had our share of proud moments. Nishara’s horse Cafe Coffee won the Governor’s Cup in 2011 and 2013. Hasanga’s horses, Another Ace, Meheran, and Western Wind - have all won the Cup in previous years. And now Square the Circle, owned jointly by Hasanga and Dr. Paba, has won the Queen’s Cup. Our commitment is generational. It’s part of our identity.
Paba and Hasanga after winning the 2025 Governor's Cup Race
Q Your stud farm in Dambulla is also well-known. What’s the story behind it?
It’s a labour of love. The Dambulla farm is where the future is bred-literally. We handle everything from bloodline planning to foal care. It’s about investing in the long game; raising horses that can someday become champions.
I’ve always said respect others, keep your word, and don’t cut corners
Q You’ve also ventured into hospitality with The Paddocks by ForestPark in Sigiriya. What inspired that move?
It was a natural extension of my passions; horses, nature, and family tradition. The Paddocks is a place where people can unwind in luxury while being close to nature and horses. It’s not just a boutique hotel; it’s an experience that reflects the countryside heritage we hold dear.
Q As a prominent member of COYLE, how has that shaped your business outlook?
COYLE has been a powerful platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. My son Hasanga and I are both proud members, and my wife Chamari is a founding member of the COYLE Ladies Chapter. Through COYLE, we engage with entrepreneurs who are equally passionate about shaping Sri Lanka’s economic future.
Q How do you reflect on your journey as a business leader and entrepreneur?
I’ve always believed in doing things the right way; with integrity, loyalty, and consistency. I may be a man of few words, but I let the results speak. Whether it’s in racing, entrepreneurial ventures, or hospitality, I’ve tried to lead with purpose.
Nishara
Q What values do you hope your children carry forward from you?
I’ve always said respect others, keep your word, and don’t cut corners. I see those values in my daughter, a respected lawyer at the Attorney General’s Department, my daughter-in-law, Dr. Paba, and in my son, Hasanga, as he takes on more leadership in the business. Watching them evolve with strength and grace is my greatest pride.
Q Your daughter has earned recognition as a respected lawyer in the Attorney General’s Department. What does her journey mean to you as a father?
My daughter is a very hardworking, committed, honest, and competent professional. There is no compromise when it comes to honesty and integrity, painstaking commitment, and professionalism in an achiever. These are values and hallmarks of success which I have steadfastly followed over the years, and I see those same values in her. Yes, I am very proud of my daughter, Nishara, for what she has achieved so far.
Selecting the right horse is an art and a science. We work closely with breeders in India, studying bloodlines, health, temperament.
Q Your son is now working alongside you in the family business. What’s it like mentoring him, and what do you hope he brings to the next generation of the Jayaratne legacy?
It’s rewarding to see my son step into the family business with passion and purpose. I guide him where needed but give him the freedom to make his own decisions. I’m equally proud of my daughter-in-law, Dr. Paba, a dedicated medical professional who shares his love for horses and supports him in all his ventures. Together, they make a strong team. I hope he brings innovation and a global perspective, while staying grounded in the values of integrity, resilience, and responsibility that define our legacy.
Nishara winning Best Dressed Lady a few years ago
Q What reforms do you think are essential for the future of Sri Lankan horse racing?
First, more structured governance and transparency. We need a consistent calendar, better financial accountability, and incentives for local jockeys to stay and grow. Horse racing can be a powerful tourism asset, but only if we treat it as such.
Q What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
In racing: a commitment to excellence and tradition. In business: integrity and long-term vision. As a father: strong values. Legacy isn’t about buildings or trophies; it’s about people and principles. If my children carry those forward, I’ve done my part.
As Jayaratne Stables steps into its next chapter, the man behind the name remains unwavering; a quiet force whose impact speaks volumes. In a country where industries rise and fall, Gamini Jayaratne’s legacy stands steady. Horses may run the track, but it’s hearts like his that keep the race alive.
With the Governor's Cup and the gueen's cup 2025 - Hasanga and Paba
Gamini, Nishara, Hasanga and Chamari
A kiss for the winner
