Fight to save racecourse gains speed
The fight to continue thoroughbred horseracing at Timaru’s Phar Lap Raceway is gaining support with another 200 people adding their names to a petition to keep the racecourse open.
The fate of the course, named after the Timaru-bred thoroughbred legend who blazed a trail winning big races in Australia and North America before his untimely end in 1932, hangs in the balance.
It has been recommended for closure, along with 19 other courses, in the controversial Messara Report that went to the Government last July.
The petition, launched by Rangitata MP Andrew Falloon, and the Phar Lap Trustees group in October, was sitting at about 4400 signatures by midday on Monday.
‘‘It’s important that Racing Minister Winston Peters gets the message loud and clear that we want Phar Lap retained,’’ Falloon says.
Falloon said they have not given up on their pursuit of 5000 signatures. He is also confident they will be successful and the track will remain open.
He said it was clear that should races be removed from Phar Lap raceway in the next three years, not only would that put at risk the viability of the raceway, but would also adversely effect local communities.
‘‘Many community groups and events use Phar Lap’s grounds and facilities,’’ Falloon said.
‘‘It is not just the racing industry. I’m thrilled that well over 4000 people have signed up so far, and we still have a few weeks for anyone to add their name at www.savepharlap.co.nz,’’ Falloon said.
He said the raceway being sold off or subdivided will see all history that comes with it being lost.
‘‘That would be a real tragedy,’’ he said.