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Minister Ramson tables historic Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill
-Horse racing industry set for transformation
Kaieteur Sports- The Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill 2024, tabled by Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. in the National Assembly, marks a historic step toward modernizing and regulating the country’s horse racing industry.
The long-awaited legislation, which was presented to Parliament by Minister Ramson, aims to establish the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, a governing body to oversee licensing, management, and discipline within the sport.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr.
The Bill outlines a comprehensive framework to professionalize horse racing in Guyana, with its provisions including establishment of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, which will be a corporate body governed by a Board comprising professionals with expertise in law, finance, business, and horse racing.
It also covers mandatory Licensing, which will allow for all racecourses, trainers, jockeys, and stable employees to obtain licenses to operate. Applications will be vetted to ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards.
A dedicated Disciplinary Committee will also be established investigate complaints and enforce penalties for breaches of rules. Actions such as license suspension or revocation will be published for public awareness.
Regulation and Enforcement will be see the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport having the power to make additional rules concerning security, safety, and operational standards at racecourses.
The tabling of the Bill represents the culmination of years of effort.
Several previous administrations attempted to introduce similar legislation but were met with resistance from certain stakeholders, particularly stable owners, as past proposals often faltered at the discussion stage, leaving the industry unregulated and vulnerable to exploitation.
Olympic Kremlin, out of Slingerz Stable, is the top horse in Guyana this year.
The passage of the Bill is poised to address longstanding issues, including the lack of accountability, safety concerns, and disputes over prize money.
By introducing a legal framework, the government aims to create an environment conducive to growth and investment.
Guyana’s push to regulate horse racing mirrors similar initiatives in other Caribbean countries like Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
In Jamaica, the establishment of the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission has transformed the horse racing sector into a robust contributor to the economy.
Regulatory oversight has attracted sponsorships, improved animal welfare, and created employment opportunities.
Similarly, in Trinidad and Tobago, the Trinidad and Tobago Racing Authority ensures fair competition, promotes ethical practices, and safeguards the interests of all stakeholders.
These examples highlight the economic and social benefits of a well-regulated industry, offering a glimpse of what Guyana could achieve under the new Bill.
Minister Ramson underscored the transformative potential of the legislation, stating that the Bill is not just about regulation; it’s about elevating horse racing to a professional sport that contributes to our nation’s economic and cultural landscape.
The Guyana Horse Racing Authority Act 2024 aims to provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in fair and transparent practices, ultimately fostering a thriving industry.
(Minister Ramson tables historic Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill)
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