On Sunday, a group of motorsports enthusiasts convened at Beanfield to discuss the way forward for the cherished motorsports venue known as the Caca Bef.
Terroll Compton, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Motorsports Association, chaired the meeting.
He raised concerns about whether authorities would rather see enthusiasts resort to illegal street racing as an alternative. Compton underscored the importance of the sport as a constructive outlet, particularly for idle or displaced young men seeking meaningful activities.
“We need to see an establishment of a home for motorsport, so these young people that are here can stop driving their cars fast on the road, and can stop going at two or three in the morning to test and tune, because they have no choice,” he said. “It keeps them from crime. It stabilises their mind. Are we fostering that, or are we going to stick to everybody must be a doctor, everybody must be a lawyer? We have enough of them.”
The local motorsports fraternity is voicing strong opposition to proposed plans to fence the area off from public access, which it is felt would be an economic misstep. Reports indicate that several regional racing teams, including those from Antigua & Barbuda, are eager to participate in upcoming events, such as the traditional Independence Day drag racing festivities.
Part of the former airstrip, which has become a drag racing hub, is now cordoned off, with imminent plans for a fuel depot to be built in the vicinity as part of the Hewanorra International Airport expansion project. These developments have sparked discontent among racers.
During the public meeting, attendees urged authorities to act swiftly to preserve what has become a beloved location for many. A key point of discussion centered on the potential need for a new racing venue if the site is closed off. The area, regarded as not only the best racing track in Saint Lucia but also one of the premier locations in the region, has become the unofficial home of motorsports on the island.
Government officials are reportedly in discussions to address the issue. In the past, alternative sites such as Cul De Sac and Dennery South have been proposed as potential locations for a dedicated motorsports venue, though such developments could be costly.
In the interim, local enthusiasts have launched a virtual petition to save the base, marking the beginning of what could escalate into further action by the determined racing community.
The airport and surroundings should be left for airport expansion. With development there will be need for more airport facilities. Find another venue for racing.
Why tie up the area like George Charles
Aviation fuel is highly combustible. It needs space in case things go south. Future airport expansion will not be limited because of a few rusty, old cars. The guy is definitely not operating on all cylinders. Maybe misfiring.
Get another venue. Kiss this one goodbye.
“He raised concerns about whether authorities would rather see enthusiasts resort to illegal street racing as an alternative. ”
Wait you trying to strongarm the government with illegal acts? Only in St. Lucia you will not be in jail for that threat.
Nah Terrol, this is a losing fight. Motorsports does not have money!
@Lol You have never heard off Formula 1, it’s like motorsports racing and tournaments.
I would agree with the notion that they want to compel everyone to become a doctor, lawyer, policeman, firefighter, etc.
I don’t think you will be able to win this, as Saint Lucia is tired of motor vehicles causing noise chaos everywhere they go. Additionally, since the government is investing in sports, they want these young men to be physically active instead of taking shortcuts. Saint Lucia wasn’t made for drag racing. (Note they also get rid off noise makers)
Saint lucia wasn’t made for drag racing.
OK,it is for purpose use..
I will tell of a very much good sport which you all can held of all your sports activités without disturbing the live of the people :
This land is ignored by all govemements and which X has been the propriétaire by injuste….
When you in the St jude hospital the overlooking the other side on the mountain there it is,I am not talking the museum hospital but the the sorrowful mother of st jude hospital vieux fort …
Who sold the Caca Bef and for how much? Was the money placed in the Consolidated funds? was this ever disclose to St. Lucians? Was this a secret deal? ** ***** ****** please make a statement on this quickly.
@Paul Regis, ask Uncle Chas dat question. He is well placed to provide the answers since he always on radio, tv, and social media.
What about the “horse racing track” that is now overgrown with grass. Can someone look at redoing it? In my opinion, that location would be alot better for car racing than the Caca Bef. Plus I’m sure it can hold a circuit-like track. THAT would make car racing huge in the region.
So, let me get this straight…. We’re using part of the old Beane Airfield runway for Rubis in the name of “airport expansion”. So tell me what is the purpose of George Charles airport with it’s 1-2 flights on a good day? Some days nothing! If we’re talking “expansion”, condemn George Charles airport in the name of good governance and monetary savings. Then, let’s talk about what’s in the best interest of Vieux Fort and Vieux Fortians.
#Gabby. I couldn’t agree with you more. GFL Charles eh making no sense
You’ll talking about motor sports don’t have money.
Did horse racing have money???
And what happened to that project???