Sport
22 February, 2024
New rail boosts safety
A NEW inside running rail will provide added safety for riders and horses at the Terang racecourse.
The inside rail, which is currently being erected on the steeple track, is a first for Terang and was provided courtesy of Racing Victoria and the state government.
“The rail comes in just shy of $56,000 and the club only had to pay 25 per cent and install it which is a huge bonus for us,” Terang Racing Club president Shane Scully said.
“Up until now we’ve never actually had a rail on that track before, only a few posts, so this will be particularly beneficial for young horses during jumps trials because it will give them a guide to follow.
“The trials are televised so they’ll also add aesthetic appeal. Our next trials will take place on March 7 so the full installation will be complete before that date. We have a great team here and the facility is looking great.”
The Terang Racing Club currently hosts six race meetings each year, plus the odd transfer one, which puts it in the middle tier of race clubs in the state.
“We’re constantly looking at ways to improve our facilities and provide a top-notch venue the community can be proud of,” Scully said.
“We installed a new automatic sprinkler system last year (among other projects) and are now working on this new rail installation.”
The club is looking forward to again hosting its annual ‘Farmers Day Out’ on, Friday, February 23.
The day will run from 12.30pm until 5pm and will include a barbecue lunch, guest speaker/Ballarat horse trainer Dan O’Sullivan and a charity horse auction.
“The auction is always well received and we’re again hoping the community gets behind this great day,” Scully said.
“Dan (O’Sullivan) will train the charity horse, which has been kindly donated by breeders David and Kathy Brown.
“The lucky winner will get a five percent share in a two year-old colt by So You Think and Maggie’s Girl.”
Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the CJD Foundation which raises funds to support families affected by Pion Disease (which can cause dementia).