Former Speaker of the House of Assembly (HoA) Mr Julian Willock is once again urging the Government of the Virgin Islands to resolve the dispute with the Thomas family so that horse racing can return. Photo: Facebook/File

There have been no horse races at Ellis Thomas Downs in Sea Cows Bay since August 2, 2022, due to an impasse between Government and the landowners over differences in the lease agreement. Photo: VINO/File

The importance of horse racing to the economy, not just to the Third District but the wider community, from car rentals to departure taxes, ferry boat services, hotels and the many variety of vendors, was also highlighted by Mr Julian Willock. Photo: VINO/File

Horseracing, a favourite Virgin Islands' pastime, came to a halt at Ellis Thomas Downs in September 2022. Photo: VINO/File

Mr Willock, who was also at one time a member of the BVI Horse Owners Association, noted that the Government must negotiate with the Thomas Family. “I know the family, they are reasonable people and we have to seek a win-win for both parties and the greater good, as horse racing is a Virgin Islands pastime.”

Mr Willock was at the time speaking as a guest of ‘Da Morning Braff Show’ hosted by Floyd P. Burnett aka 'Heritage' on Tola Radio 1005 FM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

Holistic approach to race track- Willock

The businessman and a former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, also stated that getting the land is only part of the whole matter and that the Government must be prepared to spend close to another million dollars to address the infrastructure at Ellis Thomas Downs. He said, “The running surface needs to be replaced, new grandstands must be built, and upgraded, along with new stables and there must be an incentive for horse owners to purchase horses.”

The importance of horse racing to the economy, not just to the Third District but the wider community, from car rentals to departure taxes, ferry boat services, hotels and the many variety of vendors, was also highlighted by Mr Willock.

The former Speaker, who continues working in District Three (back to school-giveaways, job fairs, food pantry, donations to many schools, D3 harbour project) and transforming the district, along with Ms Kishma P. Forbes of Virgin Islands Schools and Office Supplies, noted that he was just building on the good works of the Hon Julian Fraser RA, the incumbent district representative.

Mr Willock said he and his committee have a six-year plan for District Three and they hope to collaborate with the district representative on the items.

District 3 Senior Citizens Social on March 10, 2024

Meanwhile, Mr Willock said his main objective for appearing on Tola Radio on Tuesday was to remind the “good people of District Three” of the senior citizen's social event, which will take place on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Therapy Works compound located at Hannah Bay, Tortola.

This event is a partnership with the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) where there will be doctors and nurses on hand to provide testing for high blood pressure and sugar and give tips on healthy eating and living for District Three residents over 60 years of age.

The event will have food and music and ground transportation will be provided to pick up and return residents to their homes, according to Mr Willock.

When asked if he was running for office in District Three, Mr Willock said his “focus was on what can I do now for my people in District Three out of love and the 2027 elections will take care of itself."