Horse Racing in Jamaica

Short history on horser racing in Jamaica

For keen horse racing fans in Switzerland there are several racing tracks to visit, such as St. Moritz with its renown winter races, or in early summer Frauenfeld Swiss Derby, where this year’s winner is French King.  In fact, at any time of the year horse racing is taking place somewhere, whether in Aarau, Amilkon, Fehraltorf, Avenches, Lucerne, Maienfeld, Saignelegier, Basel and Dielsdorf in Zurich. But what of Jamaica?

Horse racing in Jamaica started in the late 1700s. Over the years several racing tracks operated across the island but all, except Caymanas Race Track closed due to financial difficulties.  Not far from Kingston, Caymanas Race Track was built in 1959 and grew in reputation as the island’s premier race track. Despite its status the race track also became bankrupt and was rescued by the government in 1989.

Today Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) manages the venue. The thorough bred industry has grown with 75-80 race days annually, mainly mid-week, week-ends and most public holidays. There are over 600 owners whose horses race at the track, where on average 6,000 spectators visit. Recently CTL introduced additional entertainment areas to draw a wider audience. These new features include a children’s play area, upgraded restaurants and a party stand with live entertainment for all the family.

Website:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-ZuKJ3qY-M

Horse Racing in Jamaica Past and Present: https://www.horseracing.com/blog/horse-racing-in-jamaica-past-and-present/

Loop on remaining positive about the industry despite COVID-19: https://www.loopjamaica.com/content/svrel-remains-positive-about-horse-racing-industry-despite-inactivity

Also visit our art gallery:  https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

Edited May 2020

August 2018