VIGL Bows Out of Racetrack

In what amounted to a total shock, although not really surprising under the turbulent circumstances, Governor Albert Bryan Jr announced at the March 3, 2025, Government House Press Briefing, that VIGL Operations, LLC, the organization that had been contracted to develop the Randall “Doc” James (RDJ) Racetrack, has agreed to allow the Government of the Virgin Islands to take back control of RDJ. 

“For nearly a decade the people of St. Croix have been waiting for the  redevelopment of RDJ,” the Governor declared. “Since the beginning of this Administration in 2019 we have dedicated a significant effort to give this project every single chance to succeed. We made concessions, we adjusted agreements and we provided the necessary support to help VIGL move forward. We did this because we know how important horse racing is to St. Croix. Not just as a sport, but as a part of our culture and our economy. The people of St. Croix deserve a fully functional racetrack and we have been committed to make that happen. Despite our efforts the project has been unable to progress. After pursuing legal action we have reached an agreement that allows the Government of the Virgin Islands to take back control of the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack and determine the best path forward for its development.”

The Governor went on to thank the people of St. Croix for their patience and explained that they would begin to immediately explore solutions that will bring horse racing back to the Big Island. He emphasized that it would be done in a sustainable and beneficial manner. 

“We need to focus on the right approach, whether that means taking on new partners, leveraging resources or taking other necessary steps to ensure progress,” Governor Bryan emphasized. 

The Governor also spoke about some of the issues that were raised with various high ranking Federal Government officials and Senators during his very productive recent trip to Washington DC. 

“I had the opportunity there to continue our lobbying efforts to advance our Administration’s federal policy priorities, including the extension of the rum cover over tax rate, the safe reopening of the refinery on St. Croix and the establishment of a special visa waiver program to strengthen the Territory’s tourism and support our ongoing recovery efforts.” 

The Governor went on to mention the importance of this month being Virgin Islands History Month.

“I wanted to take this time to share with you my thoughts on the importance of this month. Virgin Islands History Month is a time to reflect on who we are, where we come from and the impact we continue to make. The history of the Virgin Islands is not just local, it is global. Our people have shaped industries, advanced knowledge and contributed to the world in ways that deserve recognition…We celebrate our history by remembering those who paved the way and by those who will carry it forward. The next generation of Virgin Islanders will build on this foundation, shaping the future with the same ingenuity and resilience as those who came before them. And our Administration is laser focused that we put the things in place that make sure we invest in that very same concept. This month, we honor the past, take pride in our present and look forward with confidence.”   

The Governor went on to recognize and congratulate one of USVI’s own, Kruz Schembri-McCord, who made history in bringing home the Gold Medal in the Men’s Junior Individual, Epee-Division at the 2025 Junior Pan American Championships in Paraguay.         

He also went on to conclude the Press Conference and inform the residents of the USVI that he would be meeting in the coming days with the BVI (British Virgin Islands) Premier Natalio Wheatley “to have an open and candid conversation on proposed increases on U.S. Virgin Islands  based Charter operations in the BVI and obtain an equitable resolution that builds our charter yacht industry, promotes our friendship (with the BVIs) and creates economic wins for both Territories..,My intent as it has always been is to find an amicable solution, one that is fair and equitable to both of our economic interests.”

During the Press Questionnaire portion of the Briefing, M.A. Dworkin representing Yellow Cedar Media asked the Governor about rumors that have been circulating involving Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino possibly taking over the development of the RDJ Racetrack,

Governor Bryan explained that Divi is always interested in the track.

“But what we are looking for at this point is for either us to build it, or to have somebody come as close to what VIGL is  offering. And as you know our St. Thomas track does not have a promoter either, so we’re still looking to synchronize promoters if we can. But right now my priority is to just get that track up and running.”

Yellow Cedar Media then asked the Governor about the delays in obtaining the rum cover over agreement with Washington.  

“I am confident in having both the House and the Senate under the Republicans right now, although I would prefer it to be all Democrats. But we’re going to get something done now. We’re hoping it will be on the latest reconciliation bill, but if it isn’t there is another tax bill that should be coming out this summer. You know the Virgin Islands is like the small ant on the elephant’s back and we’re just tagging along. But Governor Gonzalez from Puerto Rico is on this too. I saw her while I was in Washington and she’s a friend of the Trump Administration. And so, I’m really pushing this.”

Yellow Cedar Media finally asked about what the chances were that the Refinery was going to open under the Trump Administration.

“I think the threat of the Refinery is not really the Trump Administration. That is going to happen. I don’t think we are going to have a problem getting the Refinery on…They’re very excited about the project. Even the EPA Administrator is excited about the project…But every single day the refinery is running, it’s spending money. So, we are looking for investors.”

“You’re looking for someone to come in and provide the money to run the refinery?” M.A. Dworkin inquired. 

“Absolutely.” The Governor concluded.