Those who attended the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club’s last Open Day in Vieux Fort Sunday past could not have anticipated what awaited. Held every Sunday throughout November, the Open Days gave Saint Lucians the opportunity to learn about the horse-racing project, and to purchase horses and tickets. As a bonus on the last Open Day there were two trial races. As the horses came bolting down the track, the air was filled with excitement as the crowd received a glimpse of what is expected come December 13. Some also participated in placing a fake bet on a real horse, just to get a feel of the process.
Hilaria from Desruisseaux excitedly assured the STAR that, barring serious illness, she will be in attendance on race day. “I think it’s a very good venture,” she said. “It was a good performance and I think it’s a good project. I bought my ticket already so I’m hoping to be here, by God’s grace. This is bringing the country forward, it’s very good.” Local contractor Hedrige Medouze worked as a grader operator on the racetrack. He took obvious pride in the finished product. He said: “I like the vibe, you know. I’m there on the 13th and I’m all set to bet my money on a jockey.”
Also in attendance was Prime Minister Allen Chastanet. He said it was great to see the track up and running. More importantly, he said, it was great to see the numbers coming out for the trial run. “I’m very excited to see the development and the progress that we’re making,” he added. “I’m just waiting for December 13. I think that’s going to be tremendously exciting for Saint Lucia, and I think that Saint Lucia is going to be announcing in a big way its entry into this fabulous sport.”
Director of the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club, Eden Harrington, told the STAR it was great to see people welcoming the club as part of their community. “This club isn’t going anywhere. It has a long-term vision to be positive, not just for the people of Vieux Fort, but for all of Saint Lucia. Today was a chance to trial many of the components that we’re working on here, as well as some of the systems that are going to be in place come race day.” He was unable to say how many of the 40 horses have already been purchased. But he revealed that come National Day, Saint Lucians will be owners in “three or four of the races”.
Also on hand was Ms. Diane Felicien, consultant to the National Volunteer programme. She advised that on the December 13 race day there will be some 200 volunteers working during the event, in areas including the VIP section and public entry. She said it was a delight to be working alongside the RSLTC, and she and her fellow volunteers are looking forward to the successful hosting of the event.
