A new harness racing series aimed at increasing returns to participants at the grassroots level twice per-month will get under way at Albion Park Harness Racing Club from Saturday, January 13.
The Kevin and Kay Seymour Aspirational Series provides the opportunity for trainers who haven’t tasted recent ‘feature race’ success to compete for $15,000 at Albion Park.
There will be two (2) race categories each month for three months, restricted to trainers who have not:
- Trained or driven the winner of a race worth more than $10,999 in the past two years or;
- Trained or driven the winner of more than three races worth more than $10,999 in the past two years.
The concept is the brainchild of harness racing benefactor Kevin Seymour AM and wife Kay Seymour, who will provide a three-month sponsorship of the series.
“Kay and I look forward to the success of this concept that will financially assist by way of enhanced prizemoney the participants at the grassroots level of the local harness industry,” Mr Seymour said.
It follows RQ’s earlier introduction of the ‘Marburg to Metro’ series, which proved popular with participants and punters, resulting in full fields for both heats and finals and goes hand-in-hand with the introduction of hobbyist-only trainers’ races.
RQ General Manager of Racing Simon Stout said the series would complement a range of initiatives introduced in an effort to improve racing and winning opportunities for more participants.
“Racing Queensland is committed to increasing returns to participants in a sustainable manner, which includes providing additional racing opportunities wherever possible,” Mr Stout said.
“Racing Queensland welcomes the new Kevin and Kay Seymour Aspirational series at Albion Park HRC as another avenue of opportunity for participants throughout the industry in Queensland.”
RACE DATES
- 13 Jan (C3 to C4)
- 27 Jan (C1 to C2)
- 10 Feb (C2 to C3)
- 24 Feb (C1)
- 10 Mar (C3 to C4)
- 24 Mar (C1 to C2)
For more information, please contact Racing Queensland Harness Manager (Operations) Brett Rail on (07) 3869 9774 or email brail@racingqueensland.com.au
