New Details Emerge for Return of Horse Racing During Carnival: Ticket Costs, Entertainment, VIP Section and More

Preparations are in full swing for the return of a beloved tradition as the Clinton Phipps Racetrack in St. Thomas prepares to host its first race day in seven years next month.

At Monday’s Government House press briefing, V.I. Dept. of Sports, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White spoke on the work that has been done to reach this present state of preparation.

When DSPR took over the facility, Mr. White said 12-foot high mangroves blocked visibility and the running surface was overgrown after years of disuse. "We basically were starting from the beginning," he said. Permits were obtained to cut the mangroves down to four feet high for better visibility, while new track conditioning and grooming equipment was purchased to restore the track surface. Around 200 tons of sand was spread across targeted areas to improve the surface.

Additional upgrades include a new watering system installed on a department water truck. After several rescue horses were moved off-site, the racetrack’s stables now house up to ten racing horses, according to Mr. White. The new grandstand seating constructed by Southland Gaming is three times the original size, and elevated for optimum views. Comfortable folding chairs will be available for pre-purchased assigned seating at $40 each, Mr. White noted.