Harness Racing Australia (HRA) conducted an investigation into a number of 'UFO Aussie Alien' sulkies that had been identified as not conforming to the HRA Sulky Standards in that they are wider than the maximum allowed width of 1300m.
As a result of the initial investigation it was determined that in the interests of all industry participants, the 'UFO Aussie Alien' sulky approval be temporarily suspended, effective immediately - prohibiting the ordering, sale and delivery of such sulkies without the express written permission of HRA.
As a result of other findings during the course of the investigation, HRA has lost confidence in the manufacturing process which included the incorrect shafts being fitted to some sulkies and markings that are not in accordance with the HRA sulky standard. As such, a decision has been made to permanently ban the ordering, sale and delivery of all UFO Sulkies.
The date of effect of this ban for all UFO Sulkies is 16th March 2015, with the ban on UFO ‘Aussie Alien’ being effectively the 15th December 2014, which is the date of the original temporary ban on that sulky.
It is important to note that this decision does not restrict the use of existing UFO sulkies, including ‘UFO Aussie Alien’ which meet the HRA Sulky Standard measurement requirements. These can continue to be used in the usual manner.
If participants are unsure about their UFO sulky please consult HRA's Sulky Standards, or ask Stewards in your State.
Any sulkies that do not comply with the sulky standard cannot be used in any race or trial meeting.
Participants are reminded that all gear and equipment used in official racing and trials must conform to the standards that are published on HRA's Gear and Equipment section of the national website. Stewards will continue to conduct checks to ensure that this is the case.
For any comment or for additional details please contact Gary Kairn, Operations Manager, Harness Racing Australia on (03) 9227 3003.
