MEDIA RELEASE
Following the completion of the Southern Cross Racing Series, the HRSA Board undertook a full review of the series, including a questionnaire to industry participants. As a result of the review, the following changes will be made to the 2016 Southern Cross Series:
- The re-introduction of a $10,000 Consolation for each of the four pacing finals – 2yo colts, 3yo colts, 2yo fillies and 3yo fillies.
- The 3yo Trotters Classic Series has been expanded to also include 4yo horses – ie a combined 3yo/4yo series.
- Any eligible trotter can enter the series at a fee of $275 from the time it is born up until the horse becomes a two year old. Also a trotter can enter the series from September 1 until December 31 in the year it turns two years old at a fee of $660 plus the original $275 fee.
In relation to the industry questionnaire, the most favourable support from industry participants related to the re-introduction of the Consolation. Just under 70% of those surveyed supported its re-introduction.
In relation to the Southern Cross bonus, there was consideration regarding reducing the prizemoney for the finals and increasing the bonus payment. However there was not majority support for this change in the questionnaire. The results of the questionnaire will be made available on the HRSA website on Friday 9 October. The next Southern Cross Review will be held in the 2016/17 season.
More Information
John Lewis, Chief Executive Officer Ph 0417 855 300
