New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) advises that further assessment of the RACE Awapuni track is required before confirming a return to racing, following the completion of trials on Monday 6 October.

Eleven heats were conducted both against the rail and around the markers for maiden and open horses. Following the trials, representatives from the Racing Integrity Board (RIB), NZTR, RACE Inc., and the New Zealand Jockeys’ Association (NZJA) met to review the surface and consider rider feedback.

The collective view was that while the track continues to improve, it would still benefit from additional time. All parties agreed that another set of trials is needed to provide full confidence before moving towards a raceday. These trials are expected to be held in mid-to-late October, with an exact date confirmed as soon as possible.

Track consultant Liam O’Keeffe, who has continued to monitor conditions throughout the Return-to-Racing process, supported the approach.

“Following significant rainfall over the past week (107 millimetres in the past 10 days), the track presented as a heavy surface. Riders noted some kickback, and everyone agreed it would benefit from additional time to consolidate,” said O’Keeffe.

“It was pleasing to hear from senior riders that there was no slippage, but it will be important to run another set of trials under drier conditions to give the track a full and fair test.”

NZTR acknowledges the cooperation of RACE Inc., the RIB, the NZJA, and participating riders, and thanks all parties for their continued efforts as the Return-to-Racing programme progresses.

The racemeeting originally scheduled at RACE Awapuni for Saturday 1 November will be relocated. NZTR and will work with appropriate parties to find an alternative date and venue, with details to be confirmed as soon as possible.

Issued by the Office of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing
18 Dick Street, Cambridge 3434
Tel: 0800 WINNER (946 637)
International: +64 4 576 6240
[email protected]