NOTICE TO TRAINERS:
In relation to concerns raised by harness racing industry participants regarding the Albion Park track surface, Racing Queensland management advises that continual meetings are being held with the Albion Park Harness Racing Club to resolve any issues in the longer term.
In the short term, it has been agreed that immediate action be undertaken to mitigate any risk to the safety of horses and drivers. These include:
- Track Rolling prior to meetings;
- Increased application of water prior to and between races;
- Track personnel to walk the track circuit and remove larger stone prior to and between races;
- Stewards inspect surface to ensure its suitability for racing prior to the race meeting commencing;
- Brushing and brooming of surface be undertaken regularly to remove larger stone; and
- RQ will maintain reports of incidents that could be attributed to the track surface for the consideration of Stewards and action if deemed necessary.
Racing Queensland will continue to work with the APHRC to implement the longer term strategy for the ongoing maintenance of the track surface.
David Aldred Harness Racing Operations Manager