HORSE racing was back in Vieux Fort last Sunday but not on the DSH track.
The event took place on the Kaka Boeuf which was prepared specifically for that purpose by Rayneau Gajadhar constriction company. The company was influential in ensuring that the event took off , by preparing the track to a high standard for horse racing competitions.
Jockeys from across the island displayed horse riding skills in an event organisers termed – the Race of the Base.
Hundreds of spectators turned up in high spirits to witness and experience this horse racing event as part of the pre – Jounen Kweyol activities that was put on by the Southern Equestrian Association (SEA).
According to the organisers, the event was “a catalyst for what is possible in our communities when we decide to take up the responsibility for our well-being.”
The activity aimed to bring people together to create a family friendly and safe community event.
“This was not just any horse racing event; it was an occasion of community engagement, excitement, and celebration,” Choix Melchoir, SEA’s PRO told Voice Sports.
“Our various jockeys, ranging from 14 years (the youngest jockey – Kimroy Marcellin) to our more seasoned riders in their late 20’s and early 30’s gave the audience a day to remember,” he said.
“This is a collaborative effort with different associations from all over the island participating. There were over 30 horses and jockeys, owners and family members turned up to support their favourite horse,” decalred the SEA official. “Our vendors turned out in numbers and from all accounts were happy with the outcome. All in all, it was a successful event as stated by the many attendees who commented to us, and kept asking about the date of the next race!”
Melchoir added that it was “an extraordinary day of horse racing, entertainment, and camaraderie. This VIP experience is our way of showing appreciation for your support and involvement in our community.”
The event was viewed as a way to help young people in the community to stay on a straight path by providing them with an avenue to harness their skills and display their riding prowess.
Eight thrilling races made up the event with riders competing in different categories.
Here are the results from the races:
First Race – Creole Horses – [The Hobie’s Cup]
1st Place – Tariq Clovis with the horse – Style
2nd Place – Wilbur Moffat with the Horse – W. Surprise
3rd Place – Sandy Hoofs – with the Horse – King Gambit
Second Race – Creole Horses – [True Value/Caribbean Grains Cup]
1st Place – Earl Williams with the horse – Pickup
2nd Place – Richie with the Horse – Bydo
3rd Place – Marckson Louisien – with the Horse – Masika
Third Race – Creole Horses – [Vieux Fort Plaza/Atlantic Shores Riding Stables Cup]
1st Place – Yannick Simon with the horse – Henny
2nd Place – Kade Elva with the Horse – Happy Storm
3rd Place – Delwin Dore – with the Horse – Admiral
Fourth Race – Half Breed Horses – [The Francis’ Fish and Seafood Cup]
1st Place – Sandy Hoofs St. Lucia with the horse – Loupit
2nd Place – Wilbur Moffat with the Horse – Hurt It
3rd Place – Delwin Dore – with the Horse – Pegasus
Fifth Race – Half Breed Horses – [Shernell’s Cup]
1st Place – Kirley Trim with the horse – Magical Power
2nd Place – Barry John with the Horse – Redman
3rd Place – Rayneau Gajadhar with the horse – Atlanta
Sixth Race – Thoroughbred Horses – [The Lazarus Cup]
1st Place – Fidel DaBreo with the horse – Colonel Pride
Seventh Race – The Creole Rumble – [ The Vieux Fort District Representative Cup]
1st Place – Kade Elva with the horse – Happy Storm
Eighth Race – Half Breed Rumble – [ The Rayneau Cup]
1st Place – Wilbur Moffat with the horse – Hurt It
2nd Place – Kirley Trim with the Horse – Magical Power.