Racing Victoria’s recent prize-money announcement has received positive feedback, particularly from the Australian Trainers’ Association (ATA) president Robbie Griffiths, who praised the collaborative effort that maintained current levels for the upcoming season through strategic fund reallocation.
The increase in Melbourne Cup prize money captured media attention, but the industry’s backbone lies in winning lower-tier races. Griffiths and fellow committee member Troy Corstens emphasized the importance of enhancing maiden race stakes, leading to a $5,000 increase for all professional country maidens.
Additional initiatives included a $1 million boost for the Cox Plate and elevating the Thoroughbred Club Stakes’ worth to $1 million, aiming to attract top-tier competition and potentially upgrade its status to the country’s premier 1200-metre Group 1 fillies’ contest.
Griffiths acknowledged the challenges in reaching unanimous agreements among stakeholders but expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the industry’s collective effort in addressing key concerns.
Racing Victoria’s recalibration of race ratings aimed to level the playing field for moderate performers, introducing new categories to provide better opportunities for horses in lower-rated races. This move, a result of extensive collaboration between industry stakeholders, received positive feedback from ATA vice-president Corstens.
Racing Victoria’s CEO Aaron Morrison highlighted the significance of maintaining prize-money levels to boost confidence in the industry amid economic uncertainties. Stakeholder collaboration and strategic reallocations were pivotal in ensuring ongoing sustainability and rewarding industry participants at all levels.
Morrison’s ownership experience with racehorses influenced the decision to increase prize money for country maidens, recognizing the importance of supporting smaller stables and incentivizing owners to remain active in the industry.
The industry’s focus on enhancing maiden race stakes and refining race ratings at the lower end of the scale underscores a positive outlook for Victorian racing as it approaches the upcoming Spring Racing Carnival.
📰 Related Articles
- Victoria Racing Club Introduces New Year’s Eve Twilight Races
- Harness Racing Victoria Expands Trotting Races at Mildura
- Australian Racing Prize Money Trends: Queensland Leads Distribution
- Victoria Racing Club Supports Adelaide Equestrian Festival Celebrating Thoroughbreds
- Thrilling Races Unfold at Sandown Hillside Racecourse in Victoria