Former Speaker of the House of Assembly and businessman Mr. Julian Willock announced that revitalizing the Ellis Thomas Downs (formerly known as the Little 'A' Racetrack), located in Sea Cows Bay, Tortola, is part of his plans for District Three. Photo: Internet Source

Due to the historical aspect of the track, Former Speaker of the House of Assembly and businessman Mr. Julian Willock expressed his opposition to proposals for building a racetrack in Beef Island, arguing that the Ellis Thomas Downs can be expanded. Photo: File

The last horse racing card took place at Ellis Thomas Downs on August 2, 2022. Photo: VINO/File

He made this announcement during his appearance on Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

"One of the things that I am passionate about is the Ellis Thomas Downs that has to be revived in the district. That's almost like all we have," he stated.

Ellis Thomas Downs can be expanded- Willock 

Ellis Thomas Downs was a central venue for horse racing events, including the August Tuesday races and the Premier's Cup, though it has faced management challenges and closures in recent years. 

Due to the historical aspect of the track, Willock expressed his opposition to proposals for building a racetrack on Beef Island, arguing that Ellis Thomas Downs can be expanded.

"I know that there are quiet whispers in some corners about building a track on Beef Island because Ellis Thomas Downs is too small, but there's enough land around the area that you can negotiate with new land owners, or some of that land is also owned by the crown. So there's enough land in that area for expansion."

He added, "I will be very, very sad if Ellis Thomas Downs is relocated out of District 3. That will be a sad time for the people of District Three and a sad time for me."

Repoen negotiations

The last horse racing card occurred at Ellis Thomas Downs on August 2, 2022, as negotiations with the Thomas family over the land lease collapsed over price and fair market value, and what the government of the day was willing to pay.

Willock urged for negotiations between the Thomas family and the government to be reopened, suggesting that a small committee could assist with this process. According to him, there has been a study done on the racetrack and what the value should be.

"So, I think what the honourable premier needs to do is to give it one more try. Maybe he needs to consider getting a small committee to reopen the negotiation."

Willock also expressed his willingness to act as a mediator if asked.

The closure of Ellis Thomas Downs has forced local horse owners to base their horses in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, while some have pulled out of the sport entirely. The passion for horse racing among Virgin Islanders remains, however, as is evident in the many fans who continue to attend races at Clinton E. Phipps Sr Racetrack on St Thomas.