Jamaica's premier horse racing venue is poised for significant growth and more international recognition, thanks to a strategic partnership with the New York Racing Association (NYRA). This collaboration, ignited by the improvement being done at the park by operators Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) over the past seven, potentially marks a turning point for the Jamaican horse racing industry.


In a major boost to the Caymanas Park's profile, NYRA and FOX Sports have committed to a two-year agreement to broadcast the prestigious Mouttet Mile Invitational live in the USA. This partnership renewal comes after the resounding success of the 2023 Mouttet Mile Invitational which was televised live for the first time on FOX Sports.


SVREL Executive Chairman Solomon Sharpe expressed his joy with the development. “Since SVREL has been at the helm of operations at Caymanas Park, we’ve made US multi-million-dollar investments into the product and the infrastructure as we strongly believe in the value of horseracing as an industry. We are very excited to have NYRA see the gem that Caymanas Park is and for them to step up and commit to investing in the product to help bring the sport to international racing fans. By all accounts, last year’s broadcast on FOX Sports was a hit. Racing fans from NY to California fell in love with the energy of racing at Caymanas Park and so we’re very pleased to have FOX and NYRA back on board for not just this year but also the 2025 Mouttet Mile. The potential for the growth of the local industry with the exposure and support from NYRA and FOX is limitless.”

Sharpe has consistently shared his vision for the facility to become the premier destination for sports and entertainment in the Caribbean.

In addition to broadcasting the next two editions of the Mouttet Mile, FOX Sports also stated that the extended coverage will showcase not only the world-class racing at Caymanas Park but also the venue's unique and electric atmosphere brought by the passionate racing fans. The partnership will also officially make the linkage between sports and tourism by including Jamaica’s natural beauty and historical sites in the broadcast partnership. They will also be showcasing not only the racing but the passion of the fans at Caymanas Park who add to the unique energy at the iconic venue.


Overseas punters are not to be left out as NYRA will offer a special Pick 5 wager that includes not only two graded stakes at Caymanas Park, including the Mouttet Mile but also the prestigious Cigar Mile at Aqueduct—a Grade 1 race with a purse of US$750,000.


"NYRA is looking to host an inter tote wagering double race with the Mouttet Mile and the Cigar Mile. Interest in the Mouttet Mile and by extension, Caymanas Park, has spread from coast to coast in the USA. Making betting on the Mouttet Mile accessible in the USA is a great achievement and it takes us closer to realising the ultimate goal of having the race included in the World Pool,” said Sharpe.


He also hinted at a possible purse increase for next year's Mouttet Mile.
The Mouttet Mile Invitational is a Grade One event for three-year-olds and upward going over a mile (1,600m) and in successive years has set the record for the largest purse in the English-speaking Caribbean. The 2024 purse is set at a historic US $250,000. The 3rd Running of the Mouttet Mile is scheduled for December 7.


This year’s staging is already shaping up to be an exciting affair with early interest from 7 prominent overseas-based horses and two local horses already earning their automatic spots in an exciting Win and You’re In promotion by copping wins in The Jamaica Derby (Gr. 1) and the Philip Feanny OD Gold Cup (Gr. 1). The final Win & You’re In instalments are The Jamaica Cup (Gr. 1) and Port Royal Sprint (Gr. 3) scheduled for November 9.


The collaboration between Caymanas Park and NYRA represents a significant milestone for Jamaica's horse racing industry.
Sharpe concluded “Over the past few years we’ve been able to attract some local corporate sponsors which we see as an endorsement of SVREL’s efforts to elevate horseracing and create a thriving ecosystem around it. This endorsement by an organization like NYRA bodes well for the future of racing and we can’t wait to welcome even more international partners on board as we grow a sustainable product. All of this happening in Caymanas Park’s 65th anniversary year makes it extra special.”


Building on the solid groundwork laid by SVREL's investments and innovations, this partnership with NYRA is expected to bring new opportunities, increased investment, and a higher international profile to Jamaican horse racing.

 

Jockey Dane Dawkins is brimming with confidence and ready to showcase his improved form at Caymanas Park on Saturday, following a successful stint in Canada that saw him rack up 25 wins.

The former champion rider, known for his tenacity and skill in the saddle, started slowly at the North American track, but he eventually found his rhythm and returned with more victories under his belt than in his previous overseas campaign in 2019.

Dawkins, who competed primarily at Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg, admitted that the transition was initially challenging. However, his determination to make a mark and improve on his past performances pushed him through the difficult period.

With every race, he adjusted to the nuances of the track and the competition, and by the end of the season there, Dawkins had established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His 25 wins were complemented by 24 second-place finishes and 28 third-place finishes from 169 mounts, amassing an impressive CAD$288,149 (about $33.5 million Jamaican) in earnings.

“It was a tough start because it took a while for me to get comfortable and get to know the horses, but once I got into my groove after my first two months, everything started to click. Winning 25 races this time around was a big deal for me because I only won seven the last time I was there. It shows I’m learning and improving and once I started winning races, the trainers saw my true potential and started giving me more rides,” Dawkins told SportsMax.Tv.

Dawkins’ performances in Canada weren’t just about accumulating wins, the experience also sharpened his skills. With the renewed confidence, he is eager to bring that momentum back to Jamaica, where he now hopes to continue his winning streak at Caymanas Park, as he has secured four rides on Saturday’s card and another six for Sunday.

“I’m excited to be back at Caymanas. Riding in Canada helped me fine-tune my techniques and decision-making, and I want to use that to get more wins here. The goal is to build on what I’ve achieved and show that I’m a better rider than before,” the soft-spoken rider noted.

But Dawkins isn’t just focused on immediate success. The talented jockey has his eyes set on a long-term goal—winning more Classic races to cement his legacy in the sport.

For Dawkins, these prestigious events, such as the Jamaica Derby, the Jamaica Oaks, the 1000 Guineas, 2000 Guineas, Jamaica Cup, Gold Cup and Mouttet Mile, are the pinnacle achievements for any Jamaican jockey, and he’s determined to consistently etch his name in the annals of the sport’s history.

With the season at Caymanas Park nearing its end, Dawkins return at this point in time will only allow him to challenge for the Gold Cup in October, the Jamaica Cup in November, and the lucrative Mouttet Mile in December.

“I want to consistently win those big races, the Classic races. That’s what every jockey targets in their career. Yes, I’ve won a few already, but you can’t get complacent at any time. You always have to keep pushing and putting in the work to continue getting those rides in the big races to make your mark in the sport,” he shared.

However, success on the track is only part of Dawkins’ motivation. A dedicated family man, he revealed that his greatest ambition is to ensure that his loved ones are well taken care of.

For him, the sacrifices he makes and the risks he takes are all in service of providing a better future for his family.

“At the end of the day, I ride to win and make a name for myself, but my family comes first. Every win, every achievement is for them. I just want to make my family proud and happy, and that’s what drives me to keep pushing myself and that’s what it’s all about,” Dawkins ended.

Caribbean Producers Jamaica Limited (CPJ) has officially announced its continued partnership with Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) as a main sponsor of the 2024 Mouttet Mile Invitational, which will be held at Caymanas Park on December 7, 2024. The Grade One event, which features three-year-olds and upward competing over a mile (1,600m), will offer a historic purse of US$250,000.

As a premier food and beverage company in the Caribbean, CPJ's sponsorship marks its third year supporting this prestigious event. The Mouttet Mile has grown in prominence, drawing elite horses, jockeys, and racing enthusiasts from around the world. CPJ's backing will continue to ensure that the event maintains its reputation for high-quality entertainment, premium hospitality, and an elevated experience for racing fans.

Natesha Powell, Brand Manager of Spirits and Beverages at CPJ, highlighted the synergy between the Mouttet Mile and CPJ’s premium offerings. “This is our third year sponsoring the Mouttet Mile, and it’s a perfect fit for us," Powell said. "Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, and we wanted to bring that same prestige to Jamaica. Last year, we introduced Woodford Reserve at the event, and the feedback was phenomenal. This bourbon is relatively new to the Jamaican market, and there’s no better platform to showcase it than the Mouttet Mile.”

In addition to the main race day, CPJ will play a key role in the build-up to the event with a series of "Trail to the Mile" events. The first of these events, hosted by CPJ, is scheduled for September 28, 2024, and will feature a special Woodford Reserve tasting. These events will give fans a preview of the premium experience they can expect at the Mouttet Mile in December.

SVREL, the operators of Caymanas Park and promoters of the Mouttet Mile, expressed their satisfaction with CPJ's ongoing commitment. Christopher Wills, VP Operations at SVREL, shared his enthusiasm about CPJ’s continued involvement. "The SVREL team is pleased that the Mouttet Mile continues to attract corporate sponsors in the third staging of this unique entertainment product," Wills said. "We are excited to have CPJ back onboard with us for another year. Their premium brands are a big part of creating the elevated experience for our patrons. CPJ’s return as a sponsor for the third-year running is not only a good signal for the Mouttet Mile, but also a positive indicator of the growth potential of the horseracing industry in general."

As the Mouttet Mile Invitational grows into one of the Caribbean’s premier horse racing events, CPJ’s continued sponsorship, along with other corporate support, will play a crucial role in enhancing the fan experience and expanding the international reach of the event. With the combination of top-tier racing and premium entertainment, the 2024 Mouttet Mile promises to be a standout day at Caymanas Park.

 

 

 

 

The 2024 staging of the highly anticipated Mouttet Mile Invitational is already shaping up to be an exciting affair with early interest from six prominent overseas-based horses. Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited, operators of Caymanas Park, are pleased to announce that Sheer Delight, Pack Plays, Barnaby, Legacy Isle, Commandant & Real Macho are set to bring international competition to the December 7 race day.


Sheer Delight, a three-year-old colt owned by Jeremy Rachpaul, has already made a name for himself with impressive earnings of over USD$30,000. Trained by Donovan Hutchison, Sheer Delight has recently arrived in Jamaica and is gearing up for the big race. Mr. Rachpaul expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm: "It is with excitement and joy that our team has a chance to enter the Mouttet Mile 2024 with Sheer Delight. On behalf of myself, my family, and our team, I would like to say thank you to Caymanas and the horse racing family in Jamaica. We look forward to growing our stable, racing in Jamaica, and competing in the Mouttet Mile 2024 with God's grace and blessings."


Another strong contender for the 2024 Mouttet Mile is Pack Play, owned by Diley Dakins. Dakins shared his insights on Pack Plays' capabilities stating, "Pack Plays has been preparing for the Mouttet Mile for a while and has shown tremendous speed and agility in most of his races. I know he will get the distance. Pack Plays will undoubtedly make the Mouttet Mile competition more interesting." Pack Play is currently being conditioned by trainer, Rowan Mathie.


Trainer of the 2023 winner – Rough Entry – Rohan Crichton, has returned for the 2024 staging with three entries: Legacy Isle, Commandant and Real Macho. For the current year, Commandant has had 3 wins with earnings of US$88,060, Legacy Isle has had one win, eaning US$47,480; and Real Macho has secured two wins with an earning total of US$124,020.
“Our horses are scheduled to arrive in Jamaica on September 18. The plan is to follow the same pattern as Rough Entry, ease them into their training regimen after quarantine and gradually build from there," he said. "The Mouttet Mile is an amazing event that showcases Jamaican racing, we are proud to participate and doing our best to make it two in a row.”


Local champion trainer, Anthony Nunes, has also opted to submit an international entry in runner – Barnaby. He shares: “Barnaby is a 3-year-old bay colt. He's a son of Tapiture out of the Giants Causeway mare, Giants Diva. He has a racing record of three wins and two thirds from six starts, and earnings of (US)$89,510.00 or (JMD)$14,000,000.00. Barnaby arrived in Jamaica on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, and will be in quarantine for two weeks. We look forward to having him in our barn, at which time he will start the process of getting acclimatized to his new surroundings. We look forward, shortly thereafter, to getting him on the track in preparation for the Mouttet Mile in December,” Nunes said.


Commenting on the early interest, Christopher Wills, VP Operations at SVREL, said, "We are excited to see the early enthusiasm and commitment from international owners and trainers for the 2024 Mouttet Mile. The inclusion of top-tier horses, from the North American circuit, enhances the prestige of the event and promises thrilling competition for all horse racing fans."


Since its 2022 debut, the Mouttet Mile Invitational has developed a reputation for attracting top-tier international talent. Last year’s Mouttet Mile was won by Rough Entry, an overseas entrant ridden by Canadian jockey Julien Leparoux. The inclusion of Sheer Delight and Pack Plays in the 2024 Mouttet Mile Invitational will further cement Caymanas Park’s marquee race day as the premier event in the horse racing calendar.

Having delivered according to expectations over the past two years, the hierarchy of Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) have promised that this year’s third edition of the Mouttet Invitational Mile will be the best yet, as they announced three changes to the conditions for its marquee event.

Those three changes include the allocation of 10 starting stalls for horses domiciled in Jamaica before January 1, 2024, with six starting stalls now being allocated to horses not domiciled in Jamaica before January 1, 2024, while the winners of the Jamaica Derby, Jamaica Cup, Philip Feanny Gold Cup, and the Port Royal Sprint will gain automatic entry in the Mouttet Mile.

The first two changes represent a shift from last year’s conditions when 12 stalls were reserved for horses domiciled in Jamaica before January 1, 2024, and four for horses not domiciled in Jamaica before January 1, 2024.

These changes by the promoting company are in addition to reaffirming the Mouttet Mile’s status as the most lucrative single racing event in the English-speaking Caribbean with a staggering increase in purse from US$150,000 to US$250,000 ($38,000,000 Jamaican), which was announced earlier this year.

Chris Wills, SVREL’s acting general manager of operations, said it is only fitting that the promoting company surpasses its own milestone set last year when they had overseas-based jockeys and horses to add to the excitement that was livestreamed in the United States on Fox5.

This year’s edition of the Mouttet Mile, a Grade One race for three-year-olds and up over one mile (1,600m), is scheduled for December 7, when the promoting company aims to build on the momentum gained last year.

 “When we first conceptualized the idea of hosting a race day at Caymanas Park that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with most of the prestigious events on the global racing calendar, it seemed like it was an audacious dream. However, with the approval of our board, we set to turn this dream into a reality.

“Of course, every ambitious endeavour requires the support of dedicated partners, and we were fortunate to get the backing of the Mouttet family, who not only shared our vision, but also provided the crucial support which was needed to kick start this incredible journey. Their belief in our vision enabled us to offer the largest purse ever in the English-speaking Caribbean,” Wills said during a press conference in Kingston on Tuesday.

“Since the first staging of the Mouttet Mile, I think it's fair to say the race has become the most anticipated race day in the Caribbean. It has raised the bar for what is possible for a standard we can deliver right here in Jamaica. The success of the first year was just the beginning. So, as we look ahead to 2024, I'm thrilled to announce that the best is yet to come. We are pulling out all the stops to make the third running of the Mouttet Mile Invitational an unforgettable event,” he added.

Aside from the Mouttet Mile, Gary Peart, chairman of Supreme Ventures Limited, pointed to the significance of sustained partnerships to shape the future of the overall racing product and the industry on a whole.

“Our mantra has been harmony and until all the stakeholders in horse racing come together in harmony, we will not truly realize the potential of horse racing. Most of the stakeholders are here, the only one that is outstanding is the government, and I'm appealing to my stakeholders, let's come together in harmony and let's walk and sit with the government because we think that Caymanas can not only change the fortunes of our stakeholders in horse racing, but the country on a whole,” Peart declared, as his hinted at the possibility of attracting more overseas patrons for this year’s event.

“Last year we were able to cut a deal to get Mouttet Mile on Fox Sports, and for the first time, horse racing from Jamaica was live on mainstream TV in the United States.

“It's very important, because if the experts at Jamaica Tourist Board and their team can see the potential of what a day of Caymanas Park is like, then it tells me to convince the rest of the ecosystem here and internationally that it is not going to be that great of a challenge,” he noted.

Meanwhile, SVREL’s executive chairman, Solomon Sharpe, who is overseas, lent his voice to proceedings, as he too promised that this year’s edition will again raise the bar to higher heights.

In the heart of the English-speaking Caribbean, the racing world is gearing up for the highly anticipated second running of the Mouttet Mile Invitational on December 2, 2023. 

This prestigious event has captured the imagination of punters and fans alike, solidifying its status as the most eagerly awaited race in the region this year. 

The Mouttet Mile Invitational is a battleground where the most elite 3-year-olds will vie for supremacy in a winner-take-all scenario. Racing enthusiasts and casual observers have been treated to a spectacle of high-quality performances throughout the year, with several standout performers emerging among the 3-year-old contenders. 

The Mouttet Mile presents a golden opportunity for one horse to etch its name in racing history. 

The organisers have extended invitations to sixteen of the healthiest and top-performing 3-year-olds, ensuring a field of fierce competitors. Trainers are diligently preparing their charges to ensure they are in peak condition come December 2, ready to showcase their speed, stamina, and racing prowess. 

What sets the Mouttet Mile apart from other races is not only the intense competition but also the staggering purse it offers. With a prize pool of US $125,000, the Mouttet Mile boasts the largest purse in the English-speaking Caribbean. This substantial reward adds an extra layer of excitement, attracting not only top-tier competitors but also a global audience eager to witness the thrilling spectacle unfold.

 

In a groundbreaking development, the Invitational will be broadcast live on FOX 5 NY Sports, thanks to the pivotal involvement of the New York Racing Association (NYRA). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the broadening of Caribbean horse racing. 

Solomon Sharpe, expressing gratitude for NYRA's support, stated, "This move is in support of the New York Racing Association, and we are grateful for their acceptance of our vision. Their partnership not only enhances the prestige of the Mouttet Mile but also opens new doors for Caribbean racing on the global stage." 

Andy Serling, Senior Racing Analyst at NYRA, shared his excitement about the Mouttet Mile Invitational, stating, "The inclusion of the Mouttet Mile in the international racing spotlight is a testament to the quality of competition and the passion for horse racing in the Caribbean. This event not only showcases the region's top 3-year-olds but also fosters a connection between racing communities across borders. I am thrilled to be a part of this global celebration of horse racing excellence." 

While the Mouttet Mile takes centre stage as the feature race, racing enthusiasts will be treated to a full card of 11 exhilarating races throughout the day. Among them is the Chairman's Plate, a new Grade 3 stakes race introduced this year, featuring an overnight allowance of 1820 meters. Each race guarantees a minimum purse of one million dollars, ensuring an atmosphere of high stakes and intense competition. 

Punters are encouraged to arrive early, soak up the electric atmosphere, and place their bets on their favorite horses for a chance to win big. The Mouttet Mile Invitational promises a day of exhilarating racing action, culminating in the crowning of the fastest and most resilient 3-year-old on the English-speaking Caribbean racing circuit.

The race will also be broadcast live on SportsMax beginning at 3:30pm Jamaica Time.

Trainer Alford Brown believes the presence of Japanese-born jockey Daisuke Fukumoto in Jamaica for the Mouttet Mile could be a learning moment for young riders, in particular, provided they grasp the opportunity to engage the reinsman when he visits Caymanas Park.

Fukumoto, who migrated to Canada from Japan in 2015 and rides at the Woodbine racetrack in the North American country, is said to be a big fan of Jamaica’s racing, and by virtue of his close relationship with veteran Shane Ellis, decided to grace local horsemen with his presence at the lucrative Mouttet Mile Invitational scheduled for December 2.

For Brown, who has booked Fukumoto’s services for two rides on that day, the hope is that the jockey’s visit will go beyond entertainment purposes, given the experience and knowledge he could impart to local riders based on his journey so far.

 “He was always eager to come here. So, the opportunity arose, and he jumped on it, purchased his own plane ticket and the promoters got involved by ensuring that he will be comfortable when he gets here,” Brown shared.

“It’s a very good thing for the punter's sake, for racing itself and the entertainment that it provides. More importantly, with the international jockeys being here, they could also teach some of our local riders a thing or two because you know, you learn every day and it doesn’t matter how good you think you are, there is always room for improvements, so it is just a matter of whether or not they are willing to learn,” he told SportsMax.TV.

For two years, Fukumoto studied English throughout the week and spent weekends hanging around at the track trying to catch a break. That break eventually came when trainer Reade Baker gave him a job as a groom.

From there, Fukumoto debuted as an apprentice rider in 2017 and rode his first winner on October 13 that year, his 20th birthday.

Though still fairly young, his career profile on Equibase shows Fukumoto boast a wealth of experience in the saddle with 2,586 starts, including 273 wins, 267 seconds, and 290 third-place finishes. He has career earnings of $10,949,852.

Last year, Fukumoto tallied 55 wins, with his best year in the saddle being 2020 when he rode 69 winners. His tally so far this year stands at 21 winners.

Fukumoto’s visit falls in line with Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) Executive Chairman Solomon Sharpe and team’s ambitions to expand Jamaica’s racing presence on the international market by having high profile overseas personalities grace the track.

Renowned Gulfstream Park race announcer Peter Aiello recently made an appearance on the Jamaica Cup race card.

Brown agreed that having international jockeys and commentators at the track serves as an endorsement of sorts and only augurs well for Jamaica’s racing product, especially with the Mouttet Mile set to be streamed live in the United States on Fox 5.

“I think with such a high calibre jockey coming down to ride on that day, and the fact that we are going to be televised internationally, is a good look for us and our racing. It will also draw the attention of other riders to maybe one day take up the offer to come to Jamaica and experience our racing, so it can only go forward from here,” Brown noted.

 

PROVEN Wealth and Supreme Ventures Limited on November 22 announced a partnership for the staging of the Caribbean’s single richest horse-racing event, the Mouttet Mile, at Caymanas Park on December 3.

The announcement was made in a ceremony at PROVEN Wealth Limited’s headquarters.  

“We are very proud for Supreme Ventures to be associated with Proven Wealth. The Mouttet Mile is the pre-eminent celebration of horse racing in Jamaica,” said Executive Chairman of Supreme Ventures Limited, Gary Peart.

“It is the richest horse race in the Caribbean. The purse is over US $100,000 both for the Mouttet Mile and an ancillary race we call the Chairman’s Cup. The beautiful thing about the Mouttet Mile and where you see the best of Caymanas is the infield experience that our partners, PROVEN, have decided to come on board with. It will be a wonderful experience,” he added.

“It is our pleasure to partner with the team from Mouttet Mile,” said Assistant Vice President-Wealth Management at Proven Wealth, Miguel Walker. 

“We believe that this prestigious sporting event is a game changer in the racing arena and here at PROVEN we are believers in innovation and performance, levers that once put in play, can lead to fundamental successes. We take this opportunity to congratulate our Partners, Supreme Ventures and Caymans Park and we wish them the very best on this execution,” Walker added.

 

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