HARNESS Racing Australia chairman Graeme Campbell OAM today said he had reluctantly accepted the resignation of long-serving CEO Andrew Kelly.
Kelly has spent 22 years across various senior roles in harness racing, including the past 17 years as HRA CEO.
“Andrew’s leadership through many challenges has been outstanding,” Campbell said. “His commitment and professionalism has navigated the industry through many tough times, Equine Influenza and COVID among them.
“His foresight has positioned the industry well, particularly in dealing with social license issues such as welfare, traceability, foal crop utilisation and genetic diversity, along with modernizing the industry with microchip technology.”
Campbell said Kelly also oversaw the investment in new industry events such as the TAB Eureka and the significant HRA contribution to assist with the recent resurgence and prizemoney increases at the Queensland Inter Dominion.
Kelly has also been the driving force behind industry internationalisation including the trips to Sweden for the iconic Elitlopp trotting race, most recently by Just Believe and The Locomotive, which has significantly boosted the recognition of Australian harness racing around the globe.
Kelly said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time in the role.
“I’d particularly like to thank members of the HRA Executive for their belief and unwavering support, while also acknowledging the commitment and endeavours of the team at HRA that I have been fortunate to work alongside over that time. The organisation is in great hands,” he said.
“This sport, this industry, is built around great, passionate people and it’s a privilege to devote so much of my working life to it.”
Campbell said he and the HRA Executive were appreciative Kelly had agreed to stay on and assist in the process of appointing a successor.
“We’ll start the search almost immediately and having Andrew part of it will help with a smooth transition,” he said.
