Consultation Forums
Tonight at Bendigo marks the first of three public Consultation Forums at which HRV will present a summary of the Consultation Paper, which will eventually lead to the 2020 Strategic Plan.
The Consultation Paper is currently on the website at www.hrv.org.au/general/consultation. There is also a feedback form which can be submitted direct to HRV.
HRV commenced the consultation process by presenting to representatives of the following bodies on 2 September:
Association of Victorian Harness Racing Country Clubs
Harness Breeders Victoria
Victorian Harness Racing Sports Club (representing owners)
Victorian Harness Racing Trainers & Drivers Association, and
Victorian Square Trotters Association
We are hoping for large attendances at the forums in order to receive constructive feedback on the Paper.
The remaining two public forums (commencing at 7pm) are to be held at:
Shepparton Harness Racing Club – Tuesday 22 September
Tabcorp Park Melton – Wednesday 23 September
Breeders Crown
HRV has conducted a full review of the 2015 Breeders Crown.
Once again the event was a highlight on the Victorian calendar, however we have taken on board feedback from the industry following the event.
There will be changes for 2016, which are currently being discussed. I am certain the heats/repechage system will be overhauled for example. The location of heats is also under review.
The time of year that the Crown is held is also a topic for discussion.
HRV surveyed 20 of the top trainers and drivers and not surprisingly the result was evenly divided on whether there should be a change of date.
Clearly the placement of Derby's, APG, Vicbred and Breeders Crown is difficult to co-ordinate, as well as other factors such as the NZ Jewels.
From a wagering perspective, across the semi-final night and finals Sunday, total turnover was $7.80m slightly down on last year's comparative $7.85m.
Vicbred
Since the last newsletter, we have received the full wagering details for the Vicbred Finals weekend.
The breakdown is below.
Pleasingly a 15% growth over the two nights, including a very strong result for the trotters on the Friday night.
2015 2014 Variance Friday night $3,451,000 $2,760,000 up 25% Saturday night $3,844,000 $3,558,000 up 8% Total Both Nights $7,295,000 $6,318,000 up 15%
The numbers show that Vicbred and Breeders Crown are two very important brands for the Victorian industry.
Driver Testing
The HRV Integrity Department has collected a number of swab samples from competing drivers/trainers over the last week in order to maintain the safety and integrity of the sport and to ensure drivers are not affected by any illicit substances.
The testing of participants ensures less risk to the safety of all competing drivers and horses.
The Integrity Department has taken random samples of drivers/trainers engaged at Bendigo and Kilmore over the last week and will continue to take samples on an on-going basis.
The other significant benefit in taking samples from drivers/trainers is the early detection of any issues, so that anyone detected with banned substances in their system can also be referred to welfare and support agencies in order to receive appropriate treatment to deal with their issue or illness.
While on the subject of integrity, HRV has been performing increased stable inspections and swabbing at trials. Click here for article.
November Trial – Preferential Barrier Draws
HRV recently announced that for a trial period of one month (November), all races (other than five feature races) will have a preferential barrier draw condition placed on them.
The trial is designed to encourage more competitive racing, reduce long odds on favourites, which we hope will have a positive impact on the perception of our sport and create a more attractive wagering product.
HRV appreciates each Club's support of the trial.
The success of the trial will be assessed and we will gladly share the result of the trial with the industry.
Vale Nell Quinlan
Nell, or Nan as she was affectionately known, sadly passed away at Tabcorp Park on 24 August.
Nell was a great supporter of the industry and her interest flowed on to the next generations of family members.
Our condolences go to Nell's children Gary, Lee and Cheryl as well as the extended Quinlan/Walker families.
Pat Brooks
Also sad to hear of the passing of Pat Brooks, who would have been well known to many in the Murray River region.
Pat received a Distinguished Service Medal, in recognition of his efforts for the Cobram Club.
Pat joined the Cobram Committee in 1963 and served as President from 1971 to 1994. He became a Life Member in 1991.
First Win
Congratulations to Lisa Bartley on her first win as a driver at Shepparton on 2 September behind Als Courage, beating her two sisters Rebecca and Ellen who also drove in the race.
Did You Know?
Hard to believe that Ellas Puppeteer won a C0 at Charlton on 14 September in a mile rate of 1.52.8, breaking the track record by over two seconds.
John Anderson
Harness Racing Victoria