The Harness Racing Australia (HRA) Gear and Equipment Committee has conducted an investigation into the number of “Locked Wheel” incidents that occur in Harness Racing. This study has found that there is a large representation of Offset Sulkies involved in these incidents.
As a result of this there will be a change to the current HRA Sulky Standard to remove the following paragraphs:
- 4.1.1 The seat may be displaced to the near side by up to 6% of the overall width of the sulky.
- 4.1.2 The point which is midway between the points on the shafts, which attach to the horse, may be displaced to the near side by up to 6% of the overall width of the sulky.
These changes to the HRA Sulky Standard are effective from 1 September 2015.
Currently there are no “offset sulkies” being manufactured or distributed into the Australian market and they are not permitted to be used at all in New Zealand. Therefore this change does not affect any current business operating in Australia.
Whilst it is obvious that there are offset sulkies being used within the industry there does need to be a structured phasing out of these sulkies in line with the new standard. The Harness Racing Australia Gear and Equipment Committee have recommended a total banning of all existing offset sulkies by 1 September 2020.
Participants are reminded that all gear and equipment that is used in official racing and trials must conform to the standards that are published on the HRA website and that Stewards will continue to conduct checks to ensure that this is the case. All gear used must also be in a condition that will withstand the rigours of training, trials and racing.
The HRA gear and equipment lists are found here http://www.harness.org.au/hra/GEAR.HTM
For any comment or for additional details please contact Gary Kairn, Operations Manager, Harness Racing Australia on (03) 9227 3003.
