MORPHETTVILLE READY TO GO

The much anticipated new training facilities at Morphettville racecourse are nearing completion and the inside track is scheduled to be opened on May 16.

South Australian ATA Branch President David Balfour reports that the new training facilities are outstanding and Morphettville trainers should be pleased with the outcome of what has been a much needed major project for South Australian racing.

The synthetic Pro-ride and sand tracks are also nearing completion and together they should provide Adelaide trainers with a modern high quality training centre.

SAJC BOARD ELECTIONS

The ATA’s SA Branch strongly urges all trainers who are SAJC members to ensure that they register their vote at the forthcoming elections for a new Board.

From the ATA’s perspective, a new board committed to the racing industry and its stakeholders and operating under the commonly accepted principles of transparency and integrity, is essential if South Australian racing is to put its well documented and well publicised problems of recent times behind them and make the industry viable for all its participants.

While many SAJC members who we have spoken to have indicated their support of the ticket headed by Kerry O’Brien and Harry Perks, it is important that all members participate in the elections and give their strongest consideration to the credentials of all candidates.

BETFAIR SPONSORSHIP

Global betting giant Betfair has extended its Australian thoroughbred racing sponsorship into South Australia with the sponsorship of the SA Derby, as well as sponsorship arrangements with the Strathalbyn and Murray Bridge Racing Clubs, which will involve race sponsorships and on-course signage.

Under the arrangements, Betfair will pay 10% of its gross profit on South Australian racing to TRSA, providing extra revenue into the SA racing industry. Betfair already has a major sponsorship arrangement with the Melbourne Racing Club which includes naming rights for Sandown racecourse, now known as Betfair Park, as well as individual arrangements with a growing number of Victorian country racing clubs.

NIGHT SALE GIVEN THE FLICK

There will be no night sale on Adelaide Cup day at next year’s Magic Millions yearling sales. The ATA’s SA Branch was strongly opposed to the night session conducted this year and lobbied hard against its continuation next year.

TRAINERS BAR

Trainers are reminded about and urged to support the Trainers bar at Morphettville Racecourse, which is run by the ATA SA Branch for trainers and their owners.