Riccarton second busiest track

Press, 17 July 1987, Page 22

Riccarton second busiest track

With the exception of Ellerslie, Riccarton is now the most utilised galloping track in New Zealand, according to the chief executive-secretary of the Canterbury Jockey Club, David Lloyd. “The granting of an additional permit — June 1986 — increases the number of race meetings held by the Canterbury Jockey Club to 16,” says Mr Lloyd in his annual report. “That equals the number of meetings held by the Avondale and Wellington clubs, but excludes meetings held by the Hororata, Christchurch Hunt and Riccarton Turf Clubs. In all, there will be 20 meetings at Riccarton next season, with racing every month except September. “With the exception of the Auckland Racing Club’s Ellerslie course, Riccarton is now the most utilised galloping track in

New Zealand. This is a far cry from a few years ago when many of the dates were spread unevenly, and often there were several months between meetings. “Regular race meetings in the areas of large population are essential for the success of racing. Now that we have achieved regular racing at Riccarton; it must be an over-all advantage to the club, the industry and South Island racing,” says Mr Lloyd. He notes that the C.J.C. has been fortunate in the support it has gained from sponsors, allowing big stakes to be paid. “Stakes of $200,000 are good in any area, but exceptional in the South Island and while the club will only offer two races with stakes of such magnitude next season there will be at least 10 races with a minimum stake of $50,000,” said Mr Lloyd.