RACING VICTORIA BOWS TO PROTEST AND REVOKES PROVISIONAL APPROVAL
Racing Victoria Limited (RVL) today revoked its provisional approval for the Moonee Valley Racing Club (MVRC) to incorporate a fireworks display into the entertainment package to launch the Club’s 2009/2010 Night Racing Season on Friday, 25 September.
The decision was made following concerns raised by industry stakeholders regarding the potential impact the fireworks would have on horses competing on the night.
“Following discussions with the Moonee Valley Racing Club and a meeting with trainers earlier this week, we have decided to err on the side of caution and not grant approval for the fireworks display,” RVL Chief Executive, Rob Hines, said.
“Whilst the proposed display was not significant in either duration or noise, we felt it important to eliminate any potential risks or impacts on performance for horses competing on the night.
“The Club, whilst naturally disappointed at the decision, are fully understanding of the reasons why it has been reached and importantly it will not detract from what is a fantastic night of entertainment and Group 1 racing.”
MVRC Chief Executive, Michael Browell, said, “Whilst disappointed, we fully appreciate that with the negative comment and publicity surrounding this element of the launch of the 2009/2010 Night Racing Season, both RVL and ourselves were left with no choice but to remove this from the entertainment package.
“We believe that, despite this minor setback, we will still deliver an exceptional night of racing entertainment to launch the 2009 / 2010 Night Racing Season.
“Highlights of the night include the $500,000 Group 1 Sportingbet Manikato Stakes, along with the Eliza Park Stutt Stakes, the TBV Champagne Stakes, the Tatts JRA Cup and the Cathay Pacific Superstar 8 Jockey Challenge.
“The Challenge will pit Hong Kong’s four leading jockeys in Douglas Whyte, Olivier Doleuze, Brett Prebble and Howard Cheng against Victoria’s four leading jockeys, Craig Williams, Damien Oliver, Dwayne Dunn and Craig Newitt, in an action-packed three race series.
“With more than $1.25 million in prize money on offer, we are sure that the efforts of horses and riders will light up the night at Moonee Valley next Friday”.
Media Contact: Michael Browell – MVRC Chief Executive
M: 0412 598 312 P: (03) 9373 2200 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Shaun Kelly – RVL Communications Manager
M: 0417 145 796 P: (03) 9258 4252 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
