Works to upgrade the Albion Park Harness Racing Club (APHRC) racing surface and safeguard it against future racing disruptions continue to progress.
Works to the track were undertaken following the cancellation of three race meetings due to wet weather and the subsequent state of the track.
RQ has relocated meetings to the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club during this time, with the track performing exceptionally well following major renovation works to the racing surface in September and October.
The significant upgrade at Albion Park includes:
- An upgrade to the track base including a new base layer of crusher dust
- An improved track design with increased camber and better transitions from turns into the straight
- An extension of the crown at the top of the track on turns 3 and 4 and;
- The spreading of a new racing surface material.
To enable the finishing touches on the upgrade to be completed the following meetings set down for Albion Park have been transferred to the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club:
- Tuesday 20 November 2018
- Thursday 22 November 2018.
Racing is scheduled to return to Albion Park on 24 November 2018. To mark the return to racing and acknowledge the industry for its cooperation while the track has undergone works, RQ will make the following increases to stakes for the meeting:
- All races that were advertised at a value of $11,000 or more to be increased to $14,999 and;
- Races advertised at a value of $8,160 increased to $10,660.
Racing Queensland Chief Operating Officer Adam Wallish said: “RQ would again like to thank participants and all clubs for their cooperation and patience as we work to ensure Albion Park returns to its status as Queensland’s premier harness racing venue.”
APHRC Chairman David Fowler said: “I too wish to thank all participants and the Redcliffe Club for their cooperation during this period and it is pleasing to see RQ has agreed to increase stakes for the return meeting scheduled for 24 November.”