The Matamata Racing Club (MRC) has made a significant addition to its racing and training facility with the purchase of one of the region’s most successful training establishments.

Originally known as Wexford Stables when founded in the early 1970s by iconic trainer Dave O’Sullivan, in more recent times it has been the base for Kevin Hickman’s Valachi Racing.

The opportunity to purchase the property, which comprises 5.4 hectares and current stabling for more than 60 horses, arose with the recent decision by the Hickman family to divest of their extensive stud and racing properties.

The MRC decided that given it adjoins the racecourse property, it would be fit for purpose in meeting the needs of trainers seeking additional stabling in close proximity to club training tracks and amenities.

In a statement, the Hickman family’s company Valachi Downs gave its seal of approval to the MRC’s purchase.

“We are pleased that the property with such a rich history of racing success will be utilised to support local trainers for generations to come and wishes the Matamata Racing Club every success.”

The development over the past 20 years of the five-barn, 152-box stabling complex on MRC land has been a success for all parties, and given continuing demand, the time is now opportune to expand on that model.

The MRC’s very first tenant, John Sargent, won the 2011-12 trainers’ premiership from his on-course barn, while Jamie Richards prepared the majority of his multiple premiership-winning Te Akau team from MRC barns.

“The days of trainers, especially the younger brigade, having the resources to set up and maintain their own stables have diminished significantly over recent years,” commented MRC Chair Julie Caldwell in announcing the acquisition.

“As well as playing our part in encouraging the next generation of trainers, it’s now almost an expectation of racing clubs such as Matamata to include readily accessible stabling in their overall training facility.

“Alongside this week’s announcement by NZTR of substantial stakes increases as well as the establishment of a significant infrastructure fund, the MRC believes it is more than keeping pace with industry needs and expectations.” 

The MRC will take possession of its new property on August 1, by which time trainer tenants will have been identified and allocated their portion of existing stabling. Further development of additional horse accommodation will take place in due course and as demand warrants.

“The MRC welcomes inquiries from trainers – both within local ranks and from elsewhere – wishing to take advantage of the opportunities offered by our latest acquisition,” added Caldwell.