Track managers take part in moisture metre training Photo: Supplied

Moisture metres have joined the list of tools available to thoroughbred track managers.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has, thanks to the generosity of the NZRB’s enhancement fund, purchased 20 moisture metre units, which have been distributed to course managers.

The moisture metres will be a valuable aid in the lead up to race meetings, providing a clearer picture of the moisture levels over the track surfaces.

That will help the course managers schedule irrigation, check the uniformity of the surface and assess the drainage systems, with the aim of providing an optimum and safe racing surface.

“It will be another tool for the course managers and can be used to fine tune the irrigation schedules,” NZTR Tracks Advisor, Todd Treweek, said.  “The metres will show how much moisture is in the surface and assist the track staff make decisions about how much water to put on or not put on.”

It should also be easier to ascertain specific areas of the track that might need less or more water

Training sessions in the use of the moisture metres, for course managers and staff, have been held and the consensus from those attending the sessions was that moisture metres would be highly beneficial.