Racehorse owners get increased stakes

According to Ferreira, owners can look forward to a 20 percent increase in stakes, which will be appropriately disbursed to various categories of races.

He also announced yesterday, the demolition of two derelict barns and their rebuilding.

Ferreira said, the positive moves are in keeping with the confidence shown by owners and trainers as seen in the Stud Farm Association annual yearling sale last year.

He noted that the desire to purchase racehorses points to an interest in keeping with the thoroughbred horse racing industry moving forward.

Ferreira, also an owner and trainer, said, "our owners are the driving force behind the industry and it is the confidence of these individuals that require reward."

He pointed out the demand and supply for the thoroughbreds augurs well for racing, and can lead to an increase in the number of horses racing, and to the anticipation that we can increase the number of race days.

Ferreira said, parallel to the increase in racehorses, is the demand for stabling, and in this regard, the Arima Race Club will be demolishing two derelict barns in the paddock and rebuilding much needed accommodation for horses.

He said: "The Arima Race Club as promoters of local horse racing in Trinidad and Tobago hopes these measures will be positively received by the racing fraternity."

Already, work is being conducted at Santa Rosa Park, Arima, on a new addition to the Grand Stand. This addition is expected to be ready for use later in the current racing season.