Off-course betting high feature

Press, 31 August 1989, Page 42

Off-course betting high feature

Greymouth correspondent

A 33.6 per cent increase in T.A.B. turnover, resulting in more than $5.3 million being invested by off-course patrons, was a feature of the Greymouth Trotting Club’s 1988-89 season, the president, Mr R. W. Dayne, told members in his report to the club’s annual meeting this week. “The total turnover of $6,295,710 sets a record for the club, exceeding the previous best by over $1 million. It is interesting to note that in the four seasons since 1984-85, our total turnover has doubled,” said Mr Dayne.

The club recorded a profit of $50,980 for the season’s operations, although Mr Dayne said that much of the cost related to the flooding which struck Victoria

Park had yet to be met. Mr Dayne noted the club’s thanks for the many offers of assistance after the flooding. He also paid tribute to the work done by his committee, supporters, contractors and employed staff in having the raceway ready for racing just six weeks after the second major flood in September, 1988. A total of $29,000 was received in race sponsorship, again a record for the club. The 1989-90 season is the 100th season for the Greymouth Trotting Club and a number of activities are planned, culminating in the Lion Brown Greymouth Centennial Cup in March. A special permit has been granted by the New Zealand Racing Authority and this will allow for a two-day meeting in March.