The article discusses the history and current challenges of Caymanas Park, Jamaica’s premier horse racing facility, originally established in 1959 through the consolidation of two racing operations. Over the years, the industry has faced significant difficulties, including illegal bookmaking that undermined revenue, management inefficiencies, and financial instability. Various efforts to regulate and promote racing, including the formation of Racing Promotions Ltd and the Jamaica Racing Commission, have been implemented, but persistent issues led to government intervention and eventual divestment to Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL), which has managed the facility since 2017.

Despite SVL’s investments in improving Caymanas Park, the article highlights ongoing problems such as unmet contractual conditions, stakeholder disputes over ownership, and operational inefficiencies. The author recommends immediate reforms including reducing betting takeout rates, revising race claiming and handicapping systems to increase competitiveness and betting appeal, expanding distribution channels, and fulfilling infrastructure promises to enhance safety and attract sponsorship. The article calls for collaboration among stakeholders, promoters, and the government to revitalize the industry, emphasizing its significant economic and social potential for Jamaica.