Grange hails racehorse trainer and former politician Vincent Edwards

Minister of Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has expressed sadness at the passing of racehorse trainer and president of the Jamaica Racehorse Trainers' Association, Vincent 'Trainer' Edwards.

Edwards reportedly died on Thursday.

Grange said Edwards was an “outstanding trainer and passionate advocate who was dedicated to the development of horseracing in Jamaica.”

The Minister also noted Edwards' contribution to dancehall culture through his King Edwards sound system.

“Jamaica has benefitted from Vin Edwards' significant contributions,” said Grange as she expressed condolences to his family, friends and the racing industry.

Edwards wore many hats as a record producer, sound system operator, horseracing executive and politician.

He ran as member of parliament for St Mary Western in the 1970s on a People's National Party (PNP) ticket, was once a campaign manager for Dr Peter Phillips, and held several posts in the party.

"His unwavering dedication to the betterment of Jamaica and his legacy of service to the people will never be forgotten," said the PNP in a tribute to Edwards.

Edwards served as president of the Jamaica Racehorse Trainers Association for more than 10 years, and was also a vice president and spokesperson for the association before that.

He was also a dominant figure in the sound system and recording business in Jamaica during the early 1960s, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Clement 'Sir Coxone' Dodd, Duke Reid 'The Trojan'; and Prince Buster, 'The Voice of The People'.

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