‘World-class’ horse racing track in pipeline for Berbice – President Ali

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced plans to build a new “world-class” horse racing track in the Berbice region. The promise was made on Sunday at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic rally in Bath, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

The President highlighted the region’s strong history with the sport, stating, “You will have in this region a world-class horse racing track because you are the cradle of horse racing…we are going to invest in family-oriented spaces. We are going to give you the tools to build better communities.”

This commitment comes as the sport of horse racing gains significant momentum in the country.

A prominent horse owner, Therbhuwan ‘Turbo’ Jagdeo, has recently been a vocal advocate for an all-weather track, and the government has already taken steps to modernise the sport’s administration.

In December 2024, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., tabled the Horse Racing Authority Bill in Parliament.

The proposed legislation aims to bring clarity and structure to the industry. Key elements include provisions to address violations, expand the Authority’s membership, introduce term limits, and implement licensing for owners, jockeys, and trainers.

The country’s racing scene has also enjoyed competitive success, with Guyanese-owned horses performing impressively in recent regional races.

This momentum is building ahead of the country’s biggest horse race meet, the Guyana Cup, which is scheduled for August 17 at the Rising Sun Turf Club.