Backing race changes all in

Try to pluck a winner out of a field of multiple runners or put your hard-earned on picking first past the post in a two-horse race? Most punters would back their chances of a return on the latter any race day of the week.

But that’s hardly sport, is it? Which is why Tasracing has announced changes to the Equity in Participation Policy for harness racing to prevent a single trainer dominating fields.

CEO Andrew Jenkins said except in specific circumstances, horses trained by a trainer or trainers at the same private training venue would not be able to make up more than half the starters in a race field, to a maximum of four runners.

“Importantly, the policy will provide smaller trainers with the opportunity to consistently gain access to ratings-based handicap races,” he said.

The change was announced as racing figures adversely named in the Murrihy report were given until Thursday to present a case against being warned off Tasmanian’s racecourses.

Tasracing last week received a Supreme Court finding confirming its powers to do so.

One of the key findings of the Murrihy report was the necessity for a major racing industry overhaul to improve competition at the racetrack.

Competition, after all, is what all parties should be striving to create and encourage to ensure there is innovation that pushes boundaries and improves performance.

It also enhances the spectator experience, attracts investment, and advances technology that can benefit society beyond racing. It can also foster a culture of excellence and sportsmanship not readily pursued in certain quarters of the industry.

New Racing Minister Jane Howlett is hopeful the sport can improve its image under her management for the portfolio and that the changes “will help to enhance competition in harness racing in Tasmania”.

It’s a tough race ahead, but change must be backed all the way.