Structured, modern hub for horsemanship to create new pathways for education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship
ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the VI Equestrian Training Center, a historic, state-of-the-art facility to be constructed in Estate Body Slob on St. Croix. The center will serve as a structured, modern hub for horsemanship where young people can develop skills in equine care, agriculture, animal science, and related fields.
The state-of-the-art center, championed by the Bryan-Roach Administration in collaboration with Senator-At-Large Angel Bolques Jr. and former Senator Javan James, will be built through a public-private partnership between the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation and MCN Build.
“This partnership represents the best of what can happen when government and private industry come together with a shared purpose,” Governor Bryan said. “Horse racing and horsemanship are already a part of who we are as a people. By investing in this facility, and working with MCN, we are not only preserving that tradition, but we are also building pathways for our young people to turn passion into purpose, and purpose into opportunity.”
Governor Bryan emphasized the importance of exposing young people to opportunities that can shape their futures.
“I want our children to be exposed to everything they can,” Governor Bryan said. “Once we have their attention, we can teach them so much more. Today is a good day — the start of something great.”
The governor described the facility as an investment in future generations and a model for modern training environments that can serve as a blueprint for similar spaces throughout the Territory. The center is expected to create opportunities for horse enthusiasts and the broader equine community while expanding access to education and workforce development.
In his remarks, Sports, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Vincent Richards recognized Senator Bolques and Washington Representative Teri Helenese for their work alongside the Bryan-Roach Administration and MCN Build in advancing the project.
MCN Build, which has already demonstrated a strong commitment to the Territory through projects such as the Arthur A. Richards PreK-8 School and more than $85 million in local contracts, will bring its expertise, resources, and continued investment to the initiative. The company’s longstanding engagement with the Virgin Islands includes workforce development, youth programming, and partnerships that generate meaningful economic impact.
The Equestrian Training Center represents a major investment in youth development, cultural preservation, and economic opportunity across the Virgin Islands. The facility will transform what has historically been an informal practice into a structured, accessible program where young people can be introduced to careers in veterinary services, sports management, tourism, recreation, and related industries.
The facility is also expected to contribute to crime prevention and community stabilization by providing constructive opportunities and mentorship for young people.
Among those attending the groundbreaking ceremony were Millenial Council President Shamari Haynes, and VI Board of Career and Technical Education President Genevieve Whitaker.
As outlined by project partners, the Equestrian Training Center represents more than infrastructure. It is a comprehensive investment in people that aligns cultural heritage with modern opportunity and positions the Virgin Islands to expand an industry with deep historical roots.
“This is not just about building a facility,” Governor Bryan said. “It is about building an industry, strengthening our communities, and investing in the future of our children. When we invest in our youth, we invest in the long-term safety, stability, and prosperity of the Virgin Islands.”
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