Trotters will still have a race on Inter Dominion Grand Final Day at Tabcorp Park Menangle on March 1. Photo by Amanda Rando
A newly created $50,000 Group One trotting race will replace the Trotters Challenge on Inter Dominion Grand Final Day at Tabcorp Park Menangle on March 1.
The New South Wales Harness Racing Club still wanted to showcase trotters on this great day of harness action and have converted the proposed race from an invitation mile mobile to a 3009m standing start handicap, where preference will be given to trotters which have competed in the lead up races at Menangle on February 7 and 21.
NSW HRC chief executive officer Bruce Christison commented as follows:
“The unfortunate withdrawal of the sponsor combined with the relocation of the Great Southern Stars series in Victoria to the week following the Inter Dominion Grand Final has made the prospect of attracting the elite trotters very difficult,” Christison said.
“As a result the Club has decided to replace the challenge concept with a Group One standing start event.
“It is also a good opportunity for those watching on Grand Final Day to see some variety on the program.
“There will be many people trackside who are not regular harness racing viewers and the trotters standing start over the two laps will expose them to something different.”
The new concept may still entice interstate participation according to NSW HRC racing manager David Wonson.
“The race is attractive for the local trotters but may still entice some interstate participation,” he said.
“It is also a good incentive for trainers and owners to support the World Drivers Championship Trotters Heat which will be held at Menangle on Saturday February 21.”
The race conditions are as follows:
$50,000 TROTTERS STANDING START
Open to all Trotters. Maximum 14 starters. 3009 metres
Preference given to Trotters who competed on February 7 and 21 at Tabcorp Park Menangle. A 10 metre handicap for horses which have won a Group One race in the previous 12 months; 20 metre Handicap for two Group One wins; 30 metre Handicap three or more group one wins. (Excluding 2yo and 3yo Group One wins).