In this fast-paced and dynamic world, companies, individuals and organisations have to remain relevant by engaging the latest in software and hardware development.

In the world of horse racing, this also holds true.

Local horse racing outfit Caymanas Park is cementing its position as the Caribbean’s leading location with the launch of a state-of-the-art digital timing system (DTS).

Supreme Ventures Racing & Entertainment Limited (SVREL), operators of Caymanas Park, rolled out the new feature recently during the 50th running of the Jamaica 1000 Guineas.

The new DTS, provided by Gmax, utilises electronic devices and cutting-edge technology to accurately measure and record time during races. By employing sensors, transmitters, and receivers, this system captures precise time data, including split times, finish times, and other critical metrics. This accuracy is essential for determining winners, setting records, and conducting detailed performance analysis. Essentially, it is a beam system that clocks horses from the starting gate to the finish line. By doing so, run-ups to the pole are eliminated, and with it the inaccuracy that can result.

The beam clocks the horses from start to finish and at all fractional points in-between. With no run-ups, the starting gate is placed parallel to the appropriate pole for that distance, ensuring accuracy.

Christopher Wills, VP Operations at SVREL, expressed the company’s pride at its latest investment into the local racing product.

“We are very proud to introduce the Gmax Race System at Caymanas. This marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of racing standards and transparency at the park and takes us another step closer to being the ultimate destination for racing and entertainment in the Caribbean.”

Prior to the implementation of this system, Wills said all races at Caymanas Park were manually timed. The need for digitisation was recognized as critical and the investment was made to make the switch.

“The introduction of the DTS provides reliable and accurate timing, thereby enhancing the credibility and integrity of the races,” he charged.

The Gmax Race System is the most widely used thoroughbred race tracking system globally, providing live graphics and timing to spectators and data for use by racing professionals and fans around the world. This system will furnish SVREL with comprehensive data to analyse races and compare horses, fostering a more competitive product and ensuring the welfare of the horses.

Additionally, horse racing fans and punters will benefit from making better-informed wagers, while the viewer experience for off-track betting (OTB) and TV broadcasts and simulcasts will be enhanced with updated graphics and real-time progress displays.

“Caymanas Park is the first racecourse in the Caribbean to introduce this state-of-the-art tracking system, and it has been a pleasure working with the team at SVREL to bring this project to fruition. I am sure that it will enhance the experience of viewers in Jamaica and overseas, making it easier to follow the horses and understand the performance of these amazing athletes,” stated Will Bradley, managing director of Gmax Technology Limited, commented.

The launch of this DTS underscores SVREL’s commitment to elevating the standards of horse racing in Jamaica. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, SVREL continues to invest in the future of Caymanas Park, ensuring it remains a premier racing venue with world-class standards.

This year’s celebration of Caymanas Park’s 65th anniversary further highlights the park’s rich history and legacy.