Turf club mourns passing of trainer

Pebbles Beach, a popular spot for racehorses from the nearby Garrison Savannah going for a sea bath, became the scene of tragedy with the death of owner and trainer Xavier Blanch, who is believed to have drowned while taking a horse for a morning swim.

Blanch’s lifeless body was found on the beach around 5:44 a.m. According to the police, the 47-year-old resident of Padmore Village, St Philip was recovered from the scene by another man. He was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

His death plunged the Barbados Turf Club into shock and mourning as fellow turfites remembered a prominent member of the racing community.

Turf Club liaison officer Mohommed Mohamad said Blanch died while caring for one of his horses.

“We understand that Xavier was swimming one of his horses when he encountered difficulties, leading to this unfortunate incident,” said Mohamad. “It’s a great loss to the racing community.”

Blanch was known not only for his skills as a trainer but also for his colourful personality. “He was very outspoken and sometimes radical but always brought a unique energy to the sport. 

“He had a few notable winners, including horses like Fantastic Francis and 9.69, which stand out in his career,” Mohamad recalled.

Fellow horse trainer Shakib Kellman described Blanch, who owned about nine horses, as a father figure to him. 

“He always put me on the right path, he’s a loving man, he always keep [to] his own corner . . . He was like a father to me,” he said, struggling to process the news of Blanch’s sudden death.

Police are asking anyone with information that can assist the investigations to contact the Hastings/Worthing Police Station on 430 7612, Police Emergency 211, Crime Stoppers at 1 800 TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station. (LG)