Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle has lauded Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports Charles Ramson Jr. for the tabling of the landmark Horse Racing Authority Bill in Parliament.
The historic legislation, which aims to establish a regulatory framework for the sector, was introduced in the National Assembly on Wednesday.
The bill states that the Horse Racing Authority will be established as a governing board to act on its behalf.
The board will have a minimum of five and a maximum of seven members, chosen from among those with backgrounds in business, law, horse racing or other related disciplines.
The board members will elect the vice-chairperson, while the chairperson will be appointed by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport.
Provisions to address infractions, increase the number of members of the Authority, impose term limits, and establish licensing for owners, jockeys and trainers are important components of the bill.
It is anticipated that this development will significantly advance the formal recognition and regulation of the horse racing industry in Guyana by providing clarity, structure and oversight.
Ninvalle said, “The tabling of the Horse Racing Authority Bill by Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports Charles Ramson Jr. marks a historic moment for the industry and the local sports ecosystem. It brings clarity, structure and oversight, propelling the formal recognition and regulation of horse racing in Guyana. Based on empirical data, the horse racing industry, guided by this historic legislation, now has the capacity to emerge as an even bigger and more significant spectator sport and contributor to sports tourism in the same vein as cricket, football, and motor racing. Beyond the economic and regulatory aspects, horse racing also serves as a cultural touchstone in many societies, uniting community members in a shared passion.”
According to Ninvalle, “Known as ‘the sport of kings,’ horse racing has enthralled spectators for centuries. This is no different in Guyana, where the sport has evolved and grown, albeit at a slow rate given the lack of requisite legislation. With the necessary reforms and infrastructure set to be implemented, the advancement will occur at an even faster pace. After all, the discipline has evolved into a popular sport and entertainment industry enjoyed worldwide.
“Initially, races were informal contests between local horses, but as interest grew, the need for standardised rules and regulations became even more evident. While the standards have improved over the years, the establishment of legislation, structure, and a regulatory body, which will now become a reality due to the tabling of the bill, was a necessary step in the right direction for the sport’s immediate and future sustainability. Minister Ramson must be lauded for spearheading this process, which will have historic implications. This is a legacy defining moment.”
He further said, “The significance of developing horse racing, both as a sport and an industry, extends beyond mere entertainment; it encompasses economic, cultural, and social dimensions. Economically, the horse racing industry generates substantial revenue, contributing significantly to local and national economies. Furthermore, the establishment and evolution of horse racing laws play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and ethical management of the sport. These regulations govern every facet within the competitive realms of the discipline while more importantly, maintaining its ultimate objective of promoting fairness and transparency.“
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