Barbados / Horse Racing/Riding

Barbados has some very pleasant trails for horse riding and besides the charm of riding on the beach, it is a nice way to view the island from a different vantage point. Riding on horseback has a long tradition in Barbados and like other islands with a history of sugar cultivation, it was how the plantation overseers and owners got around. The popularity of other equestrian sports in Barbados, namely polo and horse racing, means that the horses that you may ride are more often that not former polo ponies or retired racehorses. Although horse riding remains a niche sport in Barbados, there has been more interest in dressage and show jumping in recent years, especially on the dressage front and there are local and regional tournaments held throughout the year.

Barbados Equestrian Association - The BEA is a member of the, CEA (Caribbean Equestrian Association), the FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) and is an Olympic Association member. It was formed in the 1970s following the demise of the Barbados Show Jumping Federation which was founded in the 1960s, and in 1992 dressage officially came under its umbrella.

Caribbean International Riding Centre, Cleland Plantation - Private lessons in jumping and dressage arranged. Trail rides through the Scotland District to Morgan Lewis Beach. Novice and intermediate/advanced rides. English riding and saddles only. Regular venue for FEI, CAC and CEA dressage qualifier shows. BEA member. Run by the Roachford family who include a qualified Dressage Judge and past members of the Barbados Dressage Team.

Big C Stables, Frere Pilgrim - Popular riding school run by owner and instructor, Diane Clarke. Regular venue for local (BEA) and regional (CEA) show jumping competitions. BEA member.

Congo Road Equestrian Centre, Congo Road - Specialises in dressage. Regular venue for FEI, CAC and CEA dressage qualifier shows. BEA member.

Barbados Equestrian Association, t 437 4768, equestrian@olympic.org.bb www.barbadosequestrian.com