In the wake of a tragic incident at the Rising Sun Turf Club that claimed the life of 19-year-old jockey Kishawn Pereira, Bhigrog Poonai, businessman and former president of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA), is calling for immediate reforms in the country’s horse racing sector.
Pereira, a rising talent from Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, was riding Blinding Light during the H Class race when his horse slipped and fell. In a devastating turn of events, Pereira was thrown to the ground and fatally struck by another horse, American Traveller, which was trailing closely behind.
At Pereira’s wake held at the Port Mourant Turf Club, Poonai expressed heartfelt condolences to the young jockey’s family. “We extend our sincere condolences to Kishawn Pereira and his family. I guess he is in a better place,” he said.
Poonai emphasized the need for significant changes in the racing arena, urging stakeholders to take advantage of recent legislation aimed at improving safety and standards in the industry. “With the legislation passed a few months ago, now is the ideal time to start working on this legislation and put things in place,” he stated.
He acknowledged the challenges facing the racing industry, adding, “Let this be the cause for us to improve and get better in the racing fraternity.”
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, who also attended the wake, conveyed condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Guyana. He expressed the nation’s deepest sympathies, stating, “May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The tragedy occurred during the Guyana Cup, which was held at the Rising Sun Turf Club. Nearly a week later, the organizers, the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee, have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
As the community mourns the loss of a promising young athlete, calls for reform in the horse racing sector are growing, with hopes that improvements will prevent future tragedies.
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