Hello to all. It is good to be back in the land of easily accessible internet and affordable soda pop, but I had a grand time in the Caribbean, catching up on much needed R&R and spending time on the beaches my ancestors once roamed. But no matter where I am in the world, I’m always on the lookout for horses.
I don’t fly well, so while we floated above the Caribbean drink, my nerves were somewhat eased by a story in the printed airplane Preview about horse racing on the island.
Horse racing is quite a production at Beaumont Park on St. Kitts, as many horses and fans ferry from nearby islands to participate in the festivities that include not just racing, but also energetic musicians charged with maintaining the upbeat mood and the rich smells of local cuisine.
How’s about sipping mimosa’s and a day of horse racing with this ocean view!! No wonder it’s the favorite grey mare E Z Smile for the win!
Typically 2-4 horses race at a time, which I personally think is potentially more exciting than 10-15. Fans make bets for kicks and giggles, but be aware! Races are run clockwise on the the nearby island of Nevis, a difference that has been known to frustrate horses who travel to St. Kitts where they run anti-clockwise.
I read the story of one three-horse race that was so close, every fan in the audience with a camera phone captured a different perspective of the photo finish. Unable to come to a definite conclusion, the race was called a tie!
Unfortunately, there were no races while I was visiting, but of course I managed to track down other equines on the island. My patient tour guide, Sir Walter, pulled over for a closer look at the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. Two lively bays had just been let loose in the paddock. Being the curious women we are, Mum and I recruited a student for information, and she informed us that most of the horses at the school and elsewhere on the island are Thoroughbred crosses.
Sugar cane was once the primary cash crop and grows in abundance. Horses apparently love it.
Horses were the only animals I saw contained in an enclosure on the island. Goats, sheep, chickens, cows, dogs and cats roam the island freely. According to Sir Walter, they are all owned, and they all know where they are supposed to sleep at night.
These horses graze in the shadow of an old windmill, once used to squeeze out the sweet sugar cane juice, which is then boiled down and dried to make sugar crystals.
Vacation is great, and made better with horses! Have you had any great equine encounters during non-horsey travels? Send me your stories at [email protected].
