SPORTS, TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE & CULTURE

The Antigua Turf Club is preparing to roll out the red carpet for regional horseracing royalty, Arthur Sharpe, during the Pre-Carnival Race Meet. The event is scheduled for Sunday, July 15.

Mr. Sharpe will travel to Antigua with a team of thoroughbreds. The visit to Antigua can be viewed as a reciprocal trip, after local horse owners, jockeys and horses enjoyed moderate success in a few meets in St. Kitts over the last two years.
 

 “There is no place like home, so the Antiguan trainers and owners are looking forward to the challenge and anticipate some good home cooking for Sharpe and his team of handlers and horses,” Antigua Turf Club President Neil Cochrane said.
 

“We are excited to host Arthur and his team, not just for the challenge but because of his standing. This is a man who spearheaded the development of an international-class racing facility in St. Kitts. His résumé includes trainer-of-the year in Jamaica, where he was raised. And his passion and commitment to the sport are evident with his sizeable investments in Jamaica, St. Kitts and the United States,” Cochrane added.
 

Those likely to wager friendly bets should take note of the fact Mr. Sharpe participated in the First Caribbean Classic held in Trinidad late last year, winning three of the four races his horses contested.
 

“This is going to be something to see,” Cochrane said of the fourth in a series of comeback races at Cassada Gardens after a 19-month lull. The first return race was on Easter Monday.

The pause was attributed to a stalemate between the Antigua Turf Club and Carlton “Tyre Master” Lewis, over an ownership dispute. The facility had also fallen into a state of disrepair.

“While the ownership concern remains an issue, with the government working with both parties with a view towards an amicable resolution, the Antigua Turf Club has proceeded with plans by completing extensive repairs to the facility, specifically the racing surface,” Cochrane said.