SVREL calls for industry reforms after disruption at Caymanas Park

Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) has called for urgent reforms within Jamaica's horseracing industry after Monday’s Heroes Day meet at Caymanas Park was abandoned due to disruptions caused by punters.

Tempers flared among punters after Samantha Fletcher's disqualification aboard first-past-the-post TEKAPUNT handed the second event to title-chasing jockey Raddesh Roman astride SALUD.

Fletcher's mount was disqualified for interference caused to third-past-the-post MY SUNSHINE, who was promoted to second. Runner-up SALUD, being awarded the race tied the jockeys' title-race battle between Roman and Tevin Foster at 110.

Some upset punters threw debris at the winners' enclosure, causing chaos and forcing the cancellation of the remaining races.

SVREL executive chairman Solomon Sharpe addressed the incident in a statement on Thursday, condemning the unruly behaviour and emphasizing the need for a collective effort to safeguard the sport’s integrity.

“While we understand our racing fans' passion and acknowledge their frustration with the stewards' decision in Race 2, we must unequivocally condemn the unfortunate reaction that forced the abandonment of the race day. Such behaviour not only compromises safety but also tarnishes the reputation of our beloved sport. While we value our patrons' enthusiasm, any expression of discontent must remain within acceptable bounds of sporting behaviour,” the statement said.

SVREL clarified that while it manages the facilities and infrastructure at Caymanas Park, oversight of stewards falls under the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC), a government-appointed body. According to SVREL, the incident has highlighted ongoing issues with local stewarding, which the company says falls short of international standards due to inadequate training and inconsistent rule enforcement.

“Our internal investigation has identified significant training gaps that have resulted in local stewarding practices falling short of international standards. This disparity is unacceptable for a racing jurisdiction aspiring to world-class status,” the statement added.

SVREL has called for a national review of stewarding practices, including the implementation of certification programs, regular assessments, clearer accountability, transparent decision-making, and an independent appeals mechanism.

The company noted that the disruptions on Monday resulted in revenue losses exceeding $70 million, affecting all participants in the horseracing ecosystem, including owners, trainers, jockeys, and grooms.

Sharpe also expressed disappointment over the silence from industry stakeholders, who he said have been vocal in their criticism of SVREL but were reluctant to address this incident.

"The growth and sustainability of horseracing in Jamaica require more than infrastructure investment and promotional efforts. It demands consistent application of international best practices across all aspects of racing, professional conduct from all stakeholders, including the promoter, officials, participants, and fans, collective responsibility for maintaining the sport's integrity, and equal vigilance and vocal advocacy for all issues affecting the industry, not just selected ones," the statement said.

SVREL reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing Caymanas Park and enhancing horseracing in Jamaica. However, the company stressed that achieving a world-class racing jurisdiction would require active collaboration and accountability from all involved parties.

“We firmly believe that true progress can only be achieved through collective effort, shared responsibility, and the consistent application of standards across all areas of the sport. The time has come for all stakeholders to demonstrate their commitment to the industry's growth not merely through words but through actions, consistent engagement, and a willingness to address difficult issues head-on,” the statement concluded.

SVREL said it plans to take a more assertive stance in demanding accountability and cooperation to ensure the sustainable future of Jamaica's horseracing industry.