Media Release
INCREASE IN MINIMUM STAKES
Following initiatives undertaken in recent months the Board of Harness Racing South Australia (HRSA) has today announced that the minimum stake paid for penalty bearing races has been increased 20% effective the week commencing 19th November 2018. These changes take the minimum stake from $2,500.00 to $3,000.00
In making this announcement HRSA Board Chairman Gary Crocker stated “ the Board is pleased to announce positive news for the industry and reward those who have been loyal to harness racing in South Australia”. Mr Crocker added “these changes reflect the initiatives being undertaken by HRSA to ensure that harness racing in SA remains vibrant and continues to be a significant contributor to the overall matrix of Australian harness racing”.
The increase in the minimum stake level arises from HRSA’s decision to rationalise the racing calendar whereby the number of race meetings conducted in the state is now better aligned to the race horse population. The results emanating from these changes are that field sizes have increased on average by 1.2 starters per race; the number of races conducted at each meeting has increased by more than one race per meeting and the frequency of horses starting at $1.50 or less in the betting market has reduced by 50%
All of these factors have collectively contributed to grow wagering on the SA harness product which resultantly has increased revenues that can now be directed back towards industry stakeholders.
For further information please contact:
ROSS NEAL | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
(08) 8285 0700 • rneal@saharness.org.au
