PRESS RELEASE: 20 December 2007

PRIZEMONEY MUST STAY AT “GRASS ROOTS” LEVEL

While the New South Wales Racehorse Owners Association (NSWROA) is satisfied with the prizemoney distribution for both the Country and Provincial areas of New South Wales, we as an association have grave reservations with the pending distribution of prizemoney for Metropolitan racing.

As stated by Racing New South Wales (Press Release – 20th December) “lifts in minimum Group Two, Three and Listed prizemoney has been targeted.”

In our view this is nothing short of unacceptable as Metropolitan prizemoney should be targeted only at non feature races.

We as an industry must look after the “bread and butter races” first and foremost as the majority of owners in New South Wales race horses at this level.

If Racing NSW “is indeed committed to minimising the on-going affects of EI”, then this would be better achieved by allowing all participants a greater slice of the additional prizemoney.

It is hoped that Racing NSW insists on total transparency from Race clubs in ensuring that the maximum amount of the TAB distribution is returned to participants and not held for other purposes.

“We” the owners have continued to support the industry through the EI crisis and deserve far better recognition and a proper reward through prizemoney at the “grass roots” level to continue to support racing.

“The overwhelming call and response from our members is for all additional prizemoney to be targeted at the lower level races in the Metropolitan area,” said Stephen van Eyk, President NSWROA.

For any questions or inquiries please contact Brent Crawford at NSWROA (02) 9299 4299.