RV and CRV increase investment in regional racetracks 

Racing Victoria (RV) and Country Racing Victoria (CRV) have bolstered their collective investment in regional racing by creating a full-time role to offer additional assistance to country clubs with the preparation of their racetracks. 

The Country Tracks and Facilities Coordinator will report directly to RV’s Tracks and Facilities Manager and liaise closely with officials at CRV, who are funding the new position. 

The role will provide general support across all country clubs with the preparation of their racetracks, with scope to spend additional time and resources at some clubs where required. 

Together with the new position, RV has also bolstered its existing Regional Track Manager program with the addition of three individuals which sees RV now funding 10 Regional Track Managers across Victoria. 

The Regional Track Manager program is made up of 10 experienced track managers from various clubs across the state whose primary aim is to inspect racetracks in the lead up to race meetings.

Regional Track Managers liaise closely with local race clubs and their track managers, as well as the Regional Stewards team and RV’s Racing Operations department to ensure that decisions are reached on racetrack preparation well in advance of racedays. 

With greater coverage for identifying potential issues between the Country Tracks and Facilities Coordinator, Regional Track Managers and local track managers, RV Stewards will also increase their availability to attend track inspections where possible, particularly when alerted to possible issues.

“Victorian track managers do an exceptional job, with many racetracks across the state considered among the best in Australia, but as always we are continually striving to improve our product,” said Aaron Morrison, RV Chief Executive Officer.   

“No one wants to see race meetings impacted due to track issues and while last season saw fewer meetings either partially or fully abandoned in Victoria than the preceding two seasons, these investments are about providing additional support for track managers while helping them identify and remedy potential problems.

“This newly created role, funded by our partners at CRV, and our increased investment in RV’s Regional Track Manager program should both serve to ensure that Victoria continues to set the standard for racetrack preparation. 

“Consistent track preparation is of paramount importance, primarily to preserve the safety of horses and their riders but also to maintain punter confidence, so I am sure this joint investment will be welcomed by all industry participants.”

CRV Chief Executive Officer, Scott Whiteman, echoed Morrison’s sentiments.

“We’re committed to the continual improvement of all racetracks across Victoria, as well as assisting track managers and their respective teams,” he said.

“Track management staff throughout the state do an incredible job preparing some of the best racetracks in Australia, and these additional resources will ensure they’ll have access to further guidance and assistance where needed.”