Tribute to the Late Mr. Venice “Pappy” Richards, Horse Racing Legend, by Minister of Creative Economy, Culture and Sports, John King.
On behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, I express our deepest condolences to the family of one of the region’s greatest jockeys and a horse racing legend, Venice “Pappy” Richards.
Venice, one of Barbados’ most decorated jockeys, was renowned for his impressive exploits in winning the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup on Bentom in 1986, and on Sandford Prince in 1989, 1991 and 1992.
Beyond these four wins at the historic Garrison Savannah, Venice etched his reputation as an outstanding jockey by winning numerous races, including the Trinidad Derby in 1982 and 1983, on Royal Colours and Royal Salute, respectively; and his inaugural win in Guyana during the 1960s.
Venice’s invaluable contribution to the development of horse-racing also extended to his tenure as a track consultant at the Santa Rosa race track in Arima, Trinidad, and his operating of jockey schools in Jamaica and Trinidad.
A humble gentleman with unquestionable professional integrity, a role model and an icon in the horse racing community and regional sporting community, we thank Venice for being a father to local and regional horse racing, and for his contribution to establishing Barbados as a premier location for horse racing.
Barbados and the regional horse racing community will miss this outstanding jockey and a fine gentleman.
May he rest in peace.