The location is the Historic Garrison Savannah, close to the capital, Bridgetown. The Garrison Savannah has been the home of horse racing in Barbados since 1845. The officers of the British Regiment, who were stationed in Barbados, used what was then the parade ground to match their horses in races and the wealthy merchants and planters later joined them.
Today, the excitement produced by the thousands of exuberant spectators is contagious and this being Barbados, horse racing is used as a great excuse for an array of entertainment and festivities. The people of Barbados love sharing their sport with visitors and a warm welcome awaits.
Racing at the Garrison is not only for the race fan but can be a day of family entertainment. Those who want to enjoy the spectacle from the stands can do so, whilst others who prefer an informal picnic atmosphere can lounge in the shade of the tall trees surrounding the track. The whole family can enjoy Barbadian dishes like pudding and souse, rice and stew, fried fish and fish cakes. Quenching the thirst is not a problem with drinks ranging from refreshing coconut water and icy cold beer to the finest Barbadian rum.
The Track
The track is a 6 furlongs oval grass strip and races are run at distances of 5 furlongs (1000 meters); 5½ furlongs (1100 meters); 7.8 furlongs (1570 meters); 9 furlongs (1800 meters) and 10 furlongs (2000 meters), with the horses running in a clockwise (right handed) direction.
Barbados Turf Club
The Barbados Turf Club, which regulates and promotes horse racing in Barbados, was established in 1905 and organizes three seasons of racing per year. With approximately 25 race meetings throughout the year running from January to April (Spring Season); May to September (Summer Season) and from November to December (Winter Season).
Grandstand Admission Ticket Rates (per person)
Regular Race Days Admissions:
Adult Grandstand (Gold) - US $10.00
Children Grandstand (Gold) - US $5.00 (5-12 years old)
Public Holidays Admissions
Adult Grandstand (Gold) - US $15.00
Children Grandstand - US $7.50 (5-12 years old)
Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup Day Admissions
Grandstand (Gold) - US $37.50
* Special rates apply to the Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup and Boxing Day Races. Please be advised that all Admissions are subject to change without notice.
All prices are quoted in US $ inclusive of VAT.
