No horseplay

CARLTON WATSON has proven himself to be one of Caymanas Park’s most distinguished owners, renowned for his tenacity and love for horse racing.

That love was engendered at a very young age when his brother would frequently take him to the racetrack. Along with visiting the track, Watson would observe his brother purchasing horse-racing bets, which, despite his age then, piqued his interest in the industry.

Years later, he makes a career out of it, becoming a sports king at Caymanas Park.

Having been an owner in the industry for 12 years, the sports king believes that the horse-racing business should be driven by the heart because, then, one will be able to acknowledge both the happy and bitter moments.

“Throughout my horse-racing journey, I have had both good and disappointing times. I decided a couple of years ago that I would enter the industry with all my heart because I know its challenges can deter you. Due to the nature of the industry, it is a win-lose situation, and I take my winnings and my losses when they come and keep them close to my heart. They both contribute to my growth,” he said.

Carlton’s drive in the industry has rewarded him with some memorable achievements. Some of which he considers a “dream come true”.

PROUDEST MOMENTS

“I won the championship in 2013 and also in 2021. Just like most people, one of my dreams was to win the Derby, and that was accomplished in 2020 with King Arthur. Those are some of my proudest moments. You have the passion, so when you win, it makes a difference. Those moments of being crowned champions, those two years, and having a Derby are special to me,” he expressed.

Carlton says horse racing is far from a one-man show, but instead, it is a collective effort that will help one to survive in the industry. He praises his team for their roles in his successes.

“Team is what counts in horse racing. Having a good team that understands you and communicates well is necessary, just like in any relationship. That chemistry will afford you a smooth operation, more victories, and less downtime, and I applaud and acknowledge my team for their collective effort and hard work,” said Watson.

Watson laments the many people who have entered the industry and walked away because of a few disappointments. He shared that horse racing is an expensive sport, but just like any other game, it is a gamble and advises that people who are interested in becoming owners in the industry should enter with an open mind and with all their hearts.

“People enter the game and get excited by two horses. Once they start to gamble and their horses lose, they will give up on them and leave the game with a bitter taste. My advice to those who aspire to be an owner is to enter with an open mind and heart because, in gambling, there is no certainty. Just slowly enter the game, find a good trainer, someone that you have good communication with, and take it in strides,” he advised.

Carlton is a lover of what he does. The unique sights, sounds, and camaraderie of the backstretch in the morning, the beauty of and bond with the horses, the anticipation of race day, the anxiety in the paddock before the race, and the rush he gets from seeing his horse, in silks, come on to the track are what he embraces as an owner.

As one of Caymanas Park’s sports kings, he wants only the best for the industry. He acknowledges the Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) team for their contribution to the park’s improvements since its partnership with Caymanas Group. He also welcomes the younger generation to enter the industry to help with carrying the horse-racing tradition.