Tobago: A Mania for Racing

Impatiently, Akeem Holder tugs on the leash. Obama doesn't want to enter the water. The goat is not accustomed to swimming in the sea, she is afraid of getting wet. But this is a fixed part of goat racing in Tobago, and the animals must grow accustomed to it. Obama and Akeem will spend the coming weeks getting acquainted, for they are to participate in the big goat racing competition at the next major island festival - as symbiotic racing partners.

Here on the Caribbean island of Tobago, where (according to legend) the most celebrated shipwrecked man in world literature, namely Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe, struggled for survival, ordinary goats have played an enormously important role for 87 years now. The tradition of goat racing was inaugurated in 1925, invented by the Barbados native Samuel Callender in order to offer the poorer residents of Tobago an alternative to the thoroughbred horseracing favored by the upper classes. Ever since, goat racing has served as a diversion for the 'lower classes,' and for 20 years, took place on an ordinary street. Later, it was relocated to Bay River. Today, it has developed into an extraordinary spectacle: the fishing community Buccoo Village has become a major venue, with domestic goats and their jockeys playing the principal roles. As duos, they compete against other teams, with onlookers placing bets, transforming Tobago into the setting for a sporting event that is unique worldwide.

For the arte series WunderWelten, we illuminate the tiny cosmos of goat racing on Tobago. We accompany a 'rookie' during training, follow trainers and breeders during preparations, and finally, observe the great day of the race. At the same time, we take part in everyday life among the Tobagonians. In particular, we want to learn about life at home. What does it mean for the man who take part in goat racing, and to engage in preparations?  We want to show the 'real' Tobago, one that is remote from Bacardi advertisements. Our focus is on the goats of the island of Tobago - whose reputation revolves around beaches, palm trees, and the spirit of rum, but which nonetheless features a venerable tradition among the less affluent classes that has become a genuine attraction, and from which many Tobagonians derive a sense of identity. It is a question of fame and honor among the poorest elements of the population.

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