Following the abandonment of Taupō Racing Club’s meeting on Wednesday 17 September, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) wishes to provide an update on the situation.

 

A natural tomo was discovered in the home straight near the winning post, just off the rail in the true position. Tomo are a common natural occurrence in geothermal areas. Since the incident, the Club has worked closely with Geotechnical Engineers and NZTR’s Regional Track Advisor to assess and address the issue.

 

The tomo was filled, compacted, and turfed over the past fortnight. A Ground Penetrating Radar scan was then carried out across the entire track, which identified no further concerns or indications of similar issues.

 

The repaired area has since been inspected, and both the Regional Track Advisor and Taupō Racing Club are satisfied with the progress.

 

Final sign-off will take place tomorrow, Thursday 2 October, when a minimum of eight horses will gallop over the repaired section under the observation of the Racing Integrity Board. Confirmation regarding the meeting will be provided following these gallops. Subject to this sign-off, NZTR and the Club intend to proceed with the scheduled racemeeting at Taupō on Friday 10 October.