Chris Armond, one of the leading commentators and administrators in Caribbean thoroughbred racing, died in Kingston, Jamaica on May 11. He was 66.
A statement from Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), operators of the Caymanas Park track where Armond made his name, confirmed his passing.
The statement said Armond passed away “after a short illness.”
The company’s chairman, Solomon Sharpe, expressed sadness at Armond’s death. He was SVREL’s director of racing until December, 2020.
“I have many fond memories of working with Chris from the early days and was always impressed by his vast knowledge,” Sharpe said.
“He has done so much for Caymanas Park and the horseracing industry in general. I offer my condolences to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.”
Armond came from a racing family. His grandfather Altamont and father Joseph, were also administrators. He followed their paths into the sport and was an assistant trainer early in his career.
But it was for his race-calling at Caymanas Park and on the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation radio station, that he is best known.
Armond’s knowledgeable pre-race previews and passionate commentary made him a fan favorite throughout his decade-long run which started in 1975.
In the mid-1980s, he moved into administration at Caymanas Park. He also had stints in Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.
Chris Armond was older brother of guitarist Wayne Armond of the band, Chalice.
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