Horseracing holds a special place in Barbadian culture, dating back to the early 1900s when the sport became popular among the island’s elite. Today, embraced by a wider cross-section of participants it remains a beloved pastime, showcasing the island’s passion for horses and racing.
Ah!! The Garrison- where the sound of hooves hitting the turf is like music to our ears. It is a place where legends are made and dreams come to life.
From its origins as a military parade ground to becoming the premier horseracing venue, the Garrison has evolved over the years while preserving its uniqueness and historical charm. Many unforgettable and exhilarating races have taken place here.
The Garrison racecourse stands as a historic landmark that embodies the thrill and tradition of horseracing. It’s a place where one can find themselves immersed in the electrifying atmosphere and excitement of the race day and it is an experience like no other.
The race days are filled with much anticipation and excitement, with multiple races scheduled throughout the day. From the early morning workouts to the thrilling feature races, each moment offers a glimpse into the world of local horseracing. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned bettor, the thrill of picking a winning horse and cheering it on as it crosses the finish line is an experience not to be missed.
The Grandstand at the Garrison Savannah provides a prime viewing spot to catch all the racing action up close. With panoramic views of the track and the cheering crowd, it’s the perfect place to witness the thrill of the races.
Many horses at the Garrison over the years have captured the imagination of the racing public, broken records, and left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. Horses such as Mentone in the ’60s, Kingly Street in the ’70s, Bentom, Coo Bird, Incitatus, and Apostle all provided unforgettable moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. From fierce rivalries to breathtaking performances, there was never a dull moment.
Some races stand head and shoulders above the rest. There are multiple Grade 1 races where the best of the best compete, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats, screaming for their favourites to cross that finish line first.
The Sandy Lane Gold Cup is the crown jewel of Barbadian horseracing, a test of speed, stamina, and sheer equine grit. Its history is as rich as the soil beneath the hooves. With its star-studded guest list, pomp and pageantry, and international appeal, this race is where champions are crowned. Known for its high stakes and competitive fields, the event continues to attract top horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the globe. It is a must-see event for anyone passionate about the sport of kings.
Attending the Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup though is not just about the races, it’s an experience like no other. From the thrill of watching the horses thunder down the track to the vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation, race day is a celebration of sport and culture that captivates all who attend.
For those looking to elevate their race day experience, VIP options and hospitality packages were available to provide a luxurious touch. From exclusive cabanas, private boxes, social gatherings and music performances.
This year’s renewal, the second since its return after the covid 19 pandemic certainly took top billing. Added to that was its international and Caribbean coverage. High-profile owners, the likes of Gay Smith and Ken Ramsey with their horses from the USA competing at the Garrison along with the resident horses on the island certainly created lots of interest and excitement. At the finish, it was the Gay Smith-owned Portfolio Company getting the top prize from a fast-finishing Cash Equity owned by Ken Ramsey.
The Barbados Derby has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1940 and has earned its place as the oldest classic race on the island. The main race on the August race card is the premier race for Caribbean-bred horses and the third leg of the Triple Crown. This year’s renewal, the 85th, saw the filly Papillon owned by hotelier Peter Odle with a smart ride up the rail, pulling off an upset with Dalicia’s Angel coming fast on the outside and the front-running Show Time holding on for the third place.
So, whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or a social gatherer, a day at the Garrison Savannah promises an unforgettable experience. From mingling with horses and jockeys behind the scenes and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, going racing at the Garrison is a must. So saddle up, embrace the excitement, and get ready for a day to remember.