International standard horse racing looms as stakeholders prepare for regulations

The opening day of the new racing season, which was initially set for Sunday, February 26, at the Rising Sun race track, will now be held on Sunday, March 5, due to inclement weather.
Leading up to the event, an emergency meeting was convened by one of the industry’s stakeholders, Nasrudeen Mohamed, on Sunday February 19, 2023 at Jagdeo’s residence on the Corentyne, East Berbice.
In attendance were Fazal Habibulla, Therbhuwan Jagdeo, Stuart Gonzales, Dennis Deoroop, and Mohamed.

A number of urgent issues were on the agenda. However, breeding and registration of foals, mares, and studs (stallions) set the pace for the meeting, as the breeding season commenced.
The stakeholders’ mood was very upbeat, and it was observed from their facial expression – everyone left with a broad smile, including ‘Uncle Fazal.’
An expansive, and comprehensive range of ideas was discussed and thrashed out so that breeders and stud farm owners could have their foals, mares, and stallions conform to the proper procedure for registration, which will assist with the eventual establishment of this country’s Stud Book.
The reason behind this high-powered meeting stemmed from horsemen not following the proper procedures for the registration of their foal crop in conformity with the international standard. That created problems for promoters of the sport at entry stage, this daily newspaper was informed.
The relevant documents for registration of foals, stallions, and mares will be made available to stud farm owners and breeders, according to this new racing committee, in the coming weeks, and horsemen can request same in due course.
It was suggested and agreed that three veterinarians be hired in the first instance, to ensure that the breeding of horses conforms to the international practice. The emphasis on this process comes on the heels of expected ‘approved’ regulations from Government shortly.
Mohamed, who spearheaded the meeting, explained: “We all have different views, but we now have to harness that in the same direction. This meeting was the start. We want the industry to be placed on the proper footing. Those who do not conform to rules for the registration and breeding of horses will be left behind, as we intend to stage very lucrative purses for Guyana-bred horses this season, and onwards.”
An appointed spokesperson for the Committee advised, “Every year, promoters have been faced with contentious issues regarding the age of Guyana-bred juveniles and older horses. Then the promoter is blamed for being biased when they question the validity of horses’ age when entered. This has to stop now.”
The spokesperson, whose group has unwavering love for the sport added, “Government want this sport to grow, and we have to get our act right. This is a start to several changes in the sport, and we have to display our eagerness to be properly regulated. So that when regulations are approved, we are ready.”
The spokesperson continued, “Our country, and by extension our Government, is making massive strides in development across the board. This industry has to rise to the challenge to be the hub for racing in the Caribbean, so that we can invite other Caribbean racing jurisdictions to compete in Guyana. We have to display our determination for success. We have to grow with the nation’s massive strides dictated by the Government. We have a commitment to assist the sport and show the Government we are ready.”
In concluding, the spokesperson declared, “We are advising do not miss out on this bandwagon, as this ride would not come along again. In due course, we will be sending out email and text message via social media and press released to the media of our plans. We will also welcome constructive criticism, and ideas.”