Trainer Marlon Brown (right) with jockey Matthew Bennett (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
March 21, 2025
NEW LEADERSHIP
Marlon Brown voted in as URTAJ president
Marlon Brown, a recently licensed trainer, has been elected as the new president of the United Racehorse Trainers’ Association of Jamaica (URTAJ) during its annual general meeting held at Caymanas Park on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
He won the position with 44 votes, defeating Ryan Darby who secured 25 votes. Brown takes over from Patrick Smellie, who decided not to run for re-election. The election process, including the ballot counting, was monitored by representatives from the Jamaica Racing Commission, the regulatory body for racing.
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In his acceptance speech, Brown emphasised the importance of unity among trainers, stating that it’s crucial for achieving their goals and aspirations.
“Thank you for the support you have given me, and I also thank those who did not support me for being present and exercising your right to vote. My team and I are loyal soldiers; we are dedicated to getting the job done as guided by members,” Brown expressed.
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Brown then listed his major objectives as the URTAJ president.
“There are many things to do for the benefit of trainers and the racing product in general.
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“Among these are building a closer relationship with the stakeholders in the industry to include the Government, the promoting company, the Thoroughbred Owners’ and Breeders’ Association (TOBA), the Grooms’ Association, the Racing Commission, and the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission.
“In addition, the URTAJ will be advocating for an increase in purse money during 2025, as well as seeking an improvement in the critical infrastructure to include roads and the equine pool at Caymanas Park. “We will also be seeking sponsors for our races,” President Brown shared.
Trainers David Powell, Gregg Fennell, Patrick Lynch, Barrington Bernard, and Jason DaCosta were elected as members of the URTAJ executive body.
In a post-meeting interview, Smellie expressed his commitment to supporting the new executive.
“The annual general meeting was a success; I was pleased with the turnout and the entire voting process. I wish the new president and his executive team all the best during their tenure of office, and I will be giving the new team my full support,” Smellie remarked.
