There was a huge boost for Barbados Racing recently when it was announced that floodlights will be in operation at the Garrison Savannah. Night racing will start on 30 November.
The news was a personal achievement by Barbados Turf Club President Sir David Seale, who had been the driving force for Night Racing for many years. He petitioned the Government many times, but was always thwarted until Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s Government saw a different approach. Sir David had always advocated the importance of Sports Tourism, and its value to the Barbados economy. He also argued that it was not just a boost to visiting tourists, hundreds of Barbadian workers are employed within the racing fraternity.
The success remains to be seen of Sir David’s enterprise and vision, but he won 8 Gold Cups and should know a fair bit about racing! Generally demure, he has spoken passionately about Night Racing and the development of the track in recent times. There are certainly improvements in and around the Garrison, and spectators will be assured that the racetrack will be in prime condition. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has restricted visitors to the island, but the Vaccine will arrive early next year and we are hoping for a resumption of tourism.
All racing in Barbados is normally on Saturday during three seasons, but one spin-off of night racing should be at the Sandy Lane Gold Cup in early March. In recent times the last two races were often in darkness, but with floodlights the problem has been rectified!
The patronage and support of Sir David Seale to Barbados’ horse racing industry has been huge for many years. In honour of him, the 7 races will be all named after his many famous horses. Head on out to the Garrison on Independence day and be part of history!
