Strathalbyn Focus on Future of Racing Surface
- Tuesday, 03 December 2002 00:00
The move is seen as a positive step in ensuring that the facilities meet an acceptable standard and address current deficiencies in the facility management process.
In the past a number of concerns have been raised by local and visiting trainers regarding the condition of the racetrack and training facilities and despite the best endeavors of the Club, the issues have not been able to be fully addressed. Following an inspection of the racetrack by Thoroughbred Racing SA Ltd consultant, Ray Hawke, the Committee of Strathalbyn Racing Club considered that whilst the public areas are accepted as one of the best of all racecourses in South Australia a greater effort was required to ensure that the Club remained a benchmark in the thoroughbred industry.
As a consequence of this decision the Committee has approved the restructure of grounds management within the Club and a position of Track Manager has been established. The Track Manager will be accountable to the Secretary of the Strathalbyn Racing Club Inc to ensure that the racetrack surfaces and environs are effectively maintained and prepared for trackwork, racemeetings and other approved events undertaken by the Strathalbyn Racing Club in accordance with the Club's Strategic Plan, and Australian and Local Rules of Racing. Other positions created are a Trainee Manager and Grounds-persons who will undertake grounds and facility maintenance under the direction of the Track Manager.
Secretary Nick Bawden emphasized that "all current ground-staff are eligible and are encouraged to apply for the positions which will be advertised widely in the near future."
Until such time as an appointment to the Track Manager position has been made, Ray Hawke has agreed to accept the role of coordinating the rehabilitation of the racetrack. Initial steps taken to address the concerns include the use of the new Verti-drain machine recently purchased by TRSA and the testing of ground core samples to ensure that no stone is left unturned to address the needs of the racing community.
Following the appointment of a Track Manager Ray Hawke will continue to act as a consultant to the Strathalbyn Racing Club thus ensuring that the most up-to-date techniques are adopted for the betterment of the track surfaces.
"The Strathalbyn racecourse is rapidly becoming recognized as one of the leading training facilities outside of Metropolitan Adelaide and we must ensure that everything is undertaken to provide that the needs of the trainers are addressed. The innovative water re-use scheme currently being completed has given the Racing Club a unique opportunity to ensure that this is achieved." Nick added.
Media Release - Strathalbyn Racing Club
