Following the partial abandonment of Saturday’s meeting at Hastings, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has made the decision to move the Saturday 12 October raceday and Group 1 Livamol Classic to Te Rapa. The move of the Group races is still subject to final Pattern Committee approval.

The Saturday 28 September Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate meeting at Hastings was partially abandoned following a horse slipping in the first race. Post abandonment work was carried out to the area of concern past the winning post and a set of jumpouts were held on Monday at the track. The jumpouts went without incident with several senior riders in attendance. A risk assessment was undertaken by NZTR management into, not only the safety of the track, but whether the industry could risk further damage should the worst happen given the tracks recent history.

“NZTR Board and management have carefully considered the remedial work that was completed on the track. After assessing all aspects of the situation, management believe it will pose considerable financial and reputational risk to the industry in the event of another abandonment at the same venue. Given the limited time to thoroughly test the track, the difficult decision was made to move the meeting to Te Rapa.” - Darin Balcombe, NZTR COO

“NZTR understand the devastating impact this will have on the Hawke’s Bay Club and region, and we will work with the Club over the coming weeks to provide support and identify a pathway forward.”

NZTR recognise the significance of this decision for Hawkes Bay Racing. However, the transfer will give industry participants certainty that a day of this importance to the industry can move forward without any apprehension.

“NZTR is committed to the long-term sustainability and safety of our racing operations and intend to return racing to the Hawke’s Bay.”

More information regarding the programming for the raceday will be announced in the coming days.