FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

The Association applauded the decision of the Australian Jockey Club (AJC) and Sydney Turf Club (STC) to merge to secure the future of thoroughbred racing in New South Wales.

I advise that the Association has been working hard with the AJC and STC to deliver the racing industry in Sydney with a new and better product. The Association is firmly of the belief that the decision of the Clubs to merge will be a contributory factor towards making racing in Sydney successful and profitable which in turn will give a flow-on effect to support all racing in New South Wales.

I am pleased to advise that the legislation for the merger has been before Parliament and has been passed.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate NSWROA Committee & Life Member, Max Whitby, on his selection as one of the three STC Directors who will sit on the board of the proposed new super race club.

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A QUICK WORD WITH …… MAX WHITBY

Last month we introduced a new feature into the Newsletter – “A Quick Word With …. ”. As advised, each month this column will feature a NSWROA Committee Member. Max Whitby is “in the spotlight” this issue.

1. What was your “introduction” into the racing industry?
I was a Jackaroo at Amaroo, Willow Tree and went to the Quirindi races at the age of 15.

2. Why did you decide to become a racehorse owner?
A weak moment back in the late 70’s.

3. How many horses do you currently race?
35 in Australia and New Zealand.

4. Who has been the “best” horse you have owned?
Savabeel.

5. Who has been the “best” horse you have seen?
Makybe Diva.

6. What has been your most memorable moment on a racecourse?
Owning and backing Econsul at 70/1 to win the Caulfield Guineas.

7. What is your “vision” for the industry?
We are at the threshold of the greatest opportunity in 200 years with the new merger.

8. If you were down to your last $20.00 – what would you spend it on?
Take my best mate in racing, Ray McDowell and buy a couple of schooners and find a game of two up!

30 MINUTE GAPS BETWEEN RACES

The Australian Racing Board has advised that the Australian thoroughbred racing industry is embarking on a national trial of 30 minute gaps between races.

The trial by the Principal Racing Authorities involved is being coordinated and assessed by the Australian Racing Board’s National Race Planning Committee.

The trial will include all thoroughbred races held each Tuesday over a 4 week period. The trial will commence on Tuesday 16th November, 2010.

The aim of the trial is to determine the benefits to participants of shorter race meetings, at the same time as measuring the operational and wagering impacts of running 30 minute gaps between races. It is anticipated that the knowledge gained as a result of this trial will enable the NRPC to gauge the benefits associated with this initiative.

The trial will be conducted at the following meetings:

For further inquires please contact Mr Jake Howard, Racing Executive on telephone (02) 9551 7700.

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS

A WINNER – there are no better words for an owner to hear!

As members are aware, as part of our membership renewal process, NSWROA requested members to forward the names of their racehorses in order for us to acknowledge their racing triumphs in our publications.

The listing under comprises wins recorded in New South Wales as well as Australian black type successes which are recorded in bold type.

Accordingly, hereunder are the lucky NSWROA members who had winners in October 2010:

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

With the 2010 NSWROA membership year almost at a close, I thought it was timely to update members regarding the 2011 membership year.

I am pleased to advise that membership fees for 2011, inclusive of GST, will remain at the same rate as last year.

The Association will also continue its Country membership rate. This initiative, which was introduced for the 2010 membership year, has enabled a number of our country friends to continue to participate in membership as well as encouraging new country patronage to the Association.

The “Early Bird” Membership Renewal Competition will return again in 2011 with three great prizes on offer. Entry to the competition is automatic if you renew your membership by Friday 4 February 2011.

Renewal documentation will be sent to members by either email or postal service by mid December.

I advise that some of the exciting events on our social program for 2011 are the Golden Slipper Hats & High Tea, a Night Racing Function, the very popular Sydney Cup Day Luncheon and of course our flagship event, Racing’s Night of Champions.

The Association appreciates our members’ previous support and welcomes the renewal of your membership in 2011.

200 YEARS OF HORSE RACING IN NSW – OFFICIAL CELEBRATION – THIS SUNDAY

A reminder that Racing NSW’s official celebration of 200 years of horse racing is to be conducted this Sunday, 14 November, 12-4pm at the Randwick Pavilion, Royal Randwick Racecourse, Sydney.

Proceeds from the function go to the Royal Rehabilitation Centre, Sydney - www.royalrehab.com.au.

For further information and bookings please contact Francesca Murchie at Racing NSW by Telephone: (02) 9551 7653 or Email: 200yearsofracing@racingnsw.com.au