Since the inception of Harness Education & Rehoming Opportunities (HERO) in July, 2015, one constant has been the Victorian trotting industry’s widespread support of the innovative life after racing initiative.
From owners and trainers to administrators and breeders, country clubs and kindred bodies, standardbred enthusiasts have been united in their endorsement of the program which provides a pathway for retired pacers and trotters to move into productive post-racing homes.
The extraordinary level of that backing was demonstrated with the recent purchase of a two-horse float by a generous benefactor to support HERO’s day-to-day operations.
Domenic Martello, of DNR Logistics, said he felt compelled to assist the program and hoped his decision would set the lead for others within the industry.
“I’m happy to admit I’m not a horse person. My interest in the trots started purely as a punter,” Martello explained.
“I’m a city boy but I love horses. I probably have an ownership involvement in about 20 standardbreds presently and it’s important to me that they have somewhere to go at the end of their career.
“I feel a responsibility to do everything I can to see that the horses are looked after both during and after their racing careers.
“I don’t own a suitable property to take proper care of them when they retire, so it gives me great comfort knowing a program such as HERO exists."
Martello said his involvement in harness racing is a great outlet from running his business.
“My wife sometimes jokes that the business exists to fund my passion in horses," he said.
“I think I’m fortunate that I run a business which is successful and enables me both to enjoy harness racing as an owner, and contribute to the HERO Program.”
For more details on HRV HERO visit www.hrvhero.com.au
