New Horse Racing Authority Approved in Guyana
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The long-awaited regulation of Guyana’s horse racing industry is officially underway, with the newly formed Guyana Horse Racing Authority receiving Cabinet approval and poised to begin its regulatory mandate.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. confirmed the development on Saturday, stating that the authority has already been constituted and the Cabinet has completed its review of the body’s membership and composition.
The Minister indicated that the full list of members, including the individual selected to serve as Chair, is expected to be published within the coming week.
“The body is already formed,” Minister Ramson stated on the sidelines of a weekend event. He noted that the Cabinet engaged in extensive discussions prior to granting its approval.
While the authority has likely already been gazetted, the Ministry will issue a public release to ensure the information is widely accessible to all stakeholders.
With the administrative formalities now complete, Minister Ramson emphasised that the critical phase of the initiative is about to commence.
The Authority is now tasked with executing the regulatory functions outlined under the Horse Racing Authority Act. This includes the critical work of licensing racetracks, certifying jockeys, and overseeing other key operational areas within the sport.
The push to enact and enforce the legislation stems from years of unregulated operation, which the Minister said hindered the ability to officially sanction races and meets. He stressed that establishing a formal regulatory framework is essential for elevating Guyana’s status on the international stage.
“Proper regulation is vital if we are to attract international competitors and gain the confidence of other nations,” Ramson explained. “Overseas participants must have the assurance that they are competing under fair rules and standards that are globally recognised.”
The Minister highlighted that the selection process for the Authority’s members was rigorous, with individuals chosen specifically for their expertise and their capacity to meet the demands of the regulatory body.
He noted that the appointees are expected to move swiftly beyond their appointment to begin executing their mandate.
Ramson pointed to the significant growth the sport has experienced over the past three years, driven by a combination of Government support and private investment.
These factors, he said, have cultivated an environment of growth and transformation. However, he was clear that the focus must now pivot to the practical work of regulation.
“The passage and enforcement of the Horse Racing Authority Act, along with the appointment of this body, mark a major step forward,” Ramson concluded. “The focus must now shift to the practical work of ensuring that the sport operates under clear and recognised standards.”
