COVID stops Sandy Lane Gold Cup in its tracks

Every year thousands of horse racing fans – and even those who are not fans of the sport – flock to the Garrison Savannah for the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup, which attracts local, regional and international horses for the event.

Traditionally held on the first Saturday in March, anyone making their way in the vicinity of the Garrison would have been met with traffic from all corners.

However, this year, due to the pandemic, the hugely popular event could not be held and the usually packed grandstand and surrounding vantage points were only filled with sunshine.

The Sandy Lane Gold Cup was definitely missed   by racing fans this year, but as long-time horse racing enthusiast, writer and steward Charlie Heath put it, “They are missing it but they understand that it could not have happened.”

This understanding however has not stopped fans from being grossly disappointed, as the entire production around the event – from the flying in of the coveted trophy, to the full entertainment package inclusive of a parade of the dancers, stilt walkers and marching bands just before the race – would have captivated everyone.

“From the racing perspective everyone is very disappointed, but accepts the fact that it isn’t probable… there is no way that you could risk to run it,” said Heath.

The grandstand would have been filled with 70 per cent visitors who had planned their vacation around the event, in an effort to cheer on their chosen mount too.

Heath mentioned that visitors from England, Canada and the United States have all supported the Gold Cup tremendously, and have also returned each year along with the local fans who make and entire day of the event.

Looking on the bright side, there is still something positive which has come out of it all, as the horses that would have raced at yesterday’s Gold Cup are looking beautiful, according to Heath.

The trainers are still taking them through some of their paces, but are not bringing them to peak fitness as they do not know when the next race meet will be. As a result of this break, the horses are looking magnificent.

The track, which was refurbished last year, is also in tip top shape, despite a few setbacks caused by the rain and a race day being staged on the soft tracking. (CG)