Commencing on Monday June 25, 2018 the Harness Racing mobile barrier speed will be increased to 48 kilometres per hour (km/h) for a trial period of eight weeks at Pinjarra race meetings only.
Stewards have been concerned for some time at the high number of horses in WA that either gallop in the score up or gallop at the start of races in comparison with other states.
The speed of the mobile barrier at starting release point is currently 46 km/h and this has been the set speed of the barrier for the last 10 years.
In WA the mobile barrier is fully automated with distance of score up, acceleration and take off speed all pre-set and computer controlled, however Standardbreds are much quicker than 10 years ago and the barrier speed needs to account for this
After consultation with WA Breeders Owners Trainers and Reinspersons (WABOTRA) and a number of drivers Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA) Stewards will commence the trial later this month. .
The increased speed will allow for a more comfortable pacing speed during the score up and at the release point the horse will be able to naturally increase speed without becoming unbalanced.
Throughout the trial period and at the conclusion, Stewards will consult with trainers, drivers and other stakeholders to ensure the increased mobile barrier speed has seen a reduction in the number of offenses around the start of races and a decision will be made on the speed of the mobile barrier for all future race meetings in WA.
This trial is one of several initiatives that RWWA Stewards are looking at implementing to improve starting procedures intended to ensure all horses are afforded a fair start.
Media Contact:
Kate Bishop
Corporate Communications Coordinator
Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA)
P: (08) 9445 5201
E: kate.bishop@rwwa.com.au
