Drawing on the inspiration of the Pegasus World Cup and the Everest, the Saint Lucia Turf Club will hold The Pitons Cup, a race in which owners will purchase one of 12 spots, on Dec. 13, 2019, the organization announced today.
Organizers said they are hoping to draw participation from North America and across the Caribbean with the event, which is set to be held on Saint Lucia's National Day as part of the 2019 CECF (Caribbean Equine Cultural Festival) Saint Lucia, a “luxury lifestyle and racing event” which will “couple social responsibility and business networking with the richest day of racing,” the press release reads. The event is named after the two volcanic peaks for which the island is known.
The Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club's newly built facilities will be the first stage of the Pearl of the Caribbean integrated development to be publicly unveiled. Developed by China Horse Club founder and chairman Teo Ah Khing, an architect by trade, the Turf Club will host what is now the richest race in the Caribbean with a purse of $150,000 U.S.
In a twist, owners who buy a spot in the race will also be given a racehorse who can compete on the undercard, in the seven-furlong Helen of the West race.
“Saint Lucians have been looking forward to having this international racetrack and an event of this nature,” said Saint Lucia's Prime Minister, Allen Michael Chastanet. “We are readying to welcome race fans and enthusiasts from around the world who will be getting the Saint Lucian experience for the first time. The Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club adds to the attractions and activities that already exist on our beautiful and iconic island which is among the fastest growing destinations in the world.
“The Pitons Cup launches Saint Lucia's entrance into the world of thoroughbred racing and as a government we are encouraged and excited by the opportunities it creates for our people. There is a passion behind this project to finally see it come to life is a milestone for our country. We are especially happy that the race is happening on our National Day, which holds significance for all our citizens. Great moments in racing will be made in Saint Lucia.”
Eden Harrington, Director of the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club, added, “The Pitons Cup sets the tone for the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club and its aspirations to be both a significant contributor across the Caribbean and an innovator within the racing landscape. But core to our club's belief system are the values of community, unity and active contribution. We are part of the community here in Saint Lucia and the success of this fledgling industry here rests on our ability to ensure these values are honored in every way.”
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