The 2019 Boxing Day horse races at Ellis Thomas Downs in Sea Cows Bay, Tortola, will be held in honour of ‘traditional horse owner’ and centenarian, Mr William I. Rhymer (inset). Photo: VINO/File

An exciting day of races is anticipated on Boxing Day and the public is encouraged to support. Photo: VINO/File

The flyer for the Boxing Day horse races at Ellis Thomas Downs in Sea Cows Bay, Tortola. Photo: Facebook

‘Traditional horse owner’

Mr Rhymer is regarded as one of the former “traditional horsemen” in the Virgin Islands, according to President of the VI Horse Owners Association, Mr Lesmore Smith.

The feature race, which will see the likes of Thulean, Totally Evil, Salsa Jack, Barrabas Key and Courage and Honour duking it out for the $10,000 plus bragging rights, will also be dedicated to Mr Rhymer.

Mr Smith noted that St Thomas’ horses have won the feature races for the last few meets but is hoping horses from Tortola can especially come good on Boxing Day to further honour Mr Rhymer.

Salsa Jack and Courage and Honour have the significant task of representing the hopes of Virgin Islands horse racing fans.

Barrabas Key to mix it up with the big boys!

Notably included in the feature race is Barrabas Key, who convincingly destroyed favourites Chovanes of The Boys Racing Stables and One Way to Fame of Mission House Racing Stables in a race for Class B horses at Ellis Thomas Downs on November 17, 2019. Barrabas Key’s winning time of 129 flat was marginally faster than the winning time for the feature race (129.1) won by Thulean.

There will be seven races run on the day, with the feature race being the final.

Commemorative booklet

The event will also commemorate the one year anniversary of the restoration of the race track following the hurricanes of 2017. Added to that, the Association will be issuing a commemorative booklet highlighting old horse owners and their horses.

Mr Smith is anticipating an exciting day of races and is encouraging the public’s support.

Added attractions will include a raffle and prizes for Best Cultural Wear, Lady in Red, Highest Heels, Oldest Senior and more,

Seniors will have a special tent and a discounted cost to enter.

The gate fees are: Adults $15.00, Seniors $10.00 and Children under 12 $5.00.

See official race card below: