Australian Standardbred Breeding Association (ASBA) President, Mr John Coffey, says confidence among Australian breeders is as high as he has seen for many years.
Coffey, a breeding industry leader with over 40-year experience, believes the recent Harness Racing Australia (HRA) rule changes including the introduction of Stallion Limits and the Change in Season to a calendar year is behind this confidence.
“Although restricted by Covid protocols, I’ve managed to conduct some seminars as well as provide advice to breeders across the country as the season gets underway. I am yet to encounter any broodmare owner who hasn’t thought these were a good idea.”, Coffey said.
“The vibe is extremely positive, and I’d be surprised if there is a drop in services during the 2020/21 breeding season, even with some of the current difficulties with semen transport between Australia and New Zealand which is beyond our control.
“The fact that Australian bred Sires, Poster Boy and Soho Tribeca, had broken through the 100-mare bookings mark by the end of September is further testament to that.
“That’s good news for all sectors of the Australian harness racing industry.”, he said.
Note: There were 188 Sires registered and 4,341 mares served in Australia last breeding season.
For further information please contact:
ANDREW KELLY | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
p: +61 3 9227 3000 e: akelly@hra.com.au
