news room
HRA Industry Notice - Evolution Aerospoke Mark II Sulky Wheels
25 July 2012
Harness Racing Australia (HRA) has been made aware of a number of wheel failures involving Evolution Aerospoke Mark II sulky wheels that are approved in racing and trial events.
HRA recently had a new set of these wheels tested for strength, durability and performance. This testing was performed by Human Impact Engineering. The wheels that were presented for testing passed the testing process.
The performance of these wheels was also discussed at the recent Chairman of Stewards Conference.
As a result of the failures, Stewards in each state are checking these wheels and HRA advises that all participants who are using these wheels should do the same.
Wheels should be checked by removing the perspex outer covering and inspecting for cracks with an emphasis on the area around the hub and immediately up each spoke.
The wheels are still approved for use in racing and trialing but any that are found to have any cracks or evidence of cracks should be removed immediately and not used in any situation.
HRA takes the process of testing of new and assessing the performance of existing products very seriously as it impacts on the health and safety of all participants as well as the welfare of the racing horses - but there is also an onus on participants to use equipment which is well maintained.
HRA are reviewing the Sulky Wheel Testing criteria and will continue to work with all manufacturers and distributors of gear and equipment to ensure that all new products meet the standards as set out by the industry.
For any comment or for additional details please contact Gary Kairn, Operations Manager, Harness Racing Australia, on (03) 9227 3003.
