The Executive Committee of the Antigua Turf Club Inc. is pleased to unveil conceptual plans for the redevelopment of the Cassada Gardens Racetrack and its dedicated equine biosecurity area—an exciting step towards the return of competitive horse racing in 2027.
Our vision is to breathe new life into this historic venue, creating a modern racing and entertainment destination that preserves Antigua and Barbuda’s sporting heritage while opening opportunities for investment, employment, tourism and youth development.
Comprehensive investment and gaming proposals have been submitted to the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda. We now await the Government’s approval to advance the development and establish the necessary legislative, investment and operational framework.
The redevelopment is intended to proceed in phases through foreign direct investment, partnerships with Corporate Antigua, and support from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. The conceptual plans include an upgraded racetrack, grandstand, clubhouse casino and supporting amenities, together with quarantine and receiving barns, a veterinary clinic, paddocks, an equine swimming pool and horsemen’s accommodation. An additioal hospitality feature, Trackside Villas (located on the backstretch) is also proposed subject to environmental and other feasibility studies.
Among the most exciting proposed features is live betting managed by a dedicated gaming operator, linked to broadcasting Antigua’s races outside the territory. With the necessary legislation, licences and broadcasting agreements in place, ATC – Cassada Gardens could reach new audiences, attract regional participation and create opportunities for international wagering on our local races.
At the heart of this vision is an investment in our people. The proposed Youth Equine Academy for at-risk youth would provide mentorship, practical training and pathways into meaningful careers. Annual equine-industry scholarships would help develop local expertise, while the importation of thoroughbred horses would strengthen the racing population and bring fresh competition to the track.
The benefits would extend throughout the economy. Regular racing events will generate business for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, vendors and retailers. Construction and ongoing operations will create employment opportunities, while a growing horse population will increase demand for feed, tack, veterinary services, equipment and other supplies.
We also see tremendous potential to welcome visiting owners, trainers, jockeys and racing enthusiasts, strengthen Caribbean racing connections and give Antiguan businesses new opportunities through sponsorships and commercial partnerships. A successful development will establish a broader tax base, providing additional government revenue after any approved exemption period ends.
For our Executive Committee, led by our dedicated and hard-working President, Hansen Richards, this is a vision built on years of commitment and the enduring belief that horse racing can once again make a valuable contribution to Antigua and Barbuda.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, horsemen, sponsors, racing enthusiasts and supporters for their continued loyalty, patience and encouragement. Your support has kept the dream alive.
We also thank the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in advance for considering our proposals. We sincerely hope that Cabinet will give its blessing to this development and help turn a shared ambition into a national success.
With timely approvals, confirmed investment and the necessary preparations, our goal is clear: to welcome horses back to the starting gate, supporters back to the grandstand and competitive horse racing back to the newly developed Cassada Gardens Racetrack and Entertainment Complex in 2027.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua Turf Club Unveils Cassada Gardens Redevelopment Plans, Targets Horse Racing Return in 2027.