Following a letter written by Kevin Gordon and published in this week's National Greyhound Form, Greyhound Racing NSW would like to issue the following response on the new Masters racing initiative:
Masters racing is an important initiative that prolongs the careers of NSW racing greyhounds and reiterates GRNSW’s commitment to greyhound welfare by maximising the racing opportunities available.
To clarify, Masters racing has been scheduled at both TAB B and TAB C meetings across NSW.
Prizemoney levels for Masters races is the same regardless of whether the race is conducted at a TAB B or TAB C meeting, recognising that Masters racing is a new and separate grading stream to TAB B or TAB C racing.
The introduction of Masters racing was a direct result of the consultation forums GRNSW conducted with industry participants and stakeholders across NSW late last year. Throughout the consultation process, industry participants said they would support initiatives that would provide
more opportunities for older greyhounds to continue their racing careers.
In that regard, GRNSW has been very pleased with the initial popularity of Masters racing in terms of nominations from participants.
Eight of the first ten race meetings where Masters races were scheduled have received enough nominations to stage at least one Masters race. These have been at tracks across the state.
In terms of claiming races, this concept could hardly be described as a success.
Despite numerous attempts and trial periods, they have never been widely supported by trainers and owners, and have done nothing to extend the racing careers of older greyhounds. GRNSW is also not aware of any widespread demand for the introduction of claiming races from NSW participants and note that they have not been picked up by any greyhound racing club in Australia in their respective race programming.
We acknowledge Mr Gordon’s opinion and would remind him that he is free not to choose to nominate his greyhounds for any Masters’ races - a greyhound is only drawn in a Masters’ race where its owner or trainer specifically nominates for a Masters’ race.
We welcome any feedback from participants about Masters racing and would encourage anyone with suggestions about the initiative to contact GRNSW. All feedback will be incorporated into a six month review into Masters racing that will look at all aspects of the initiative including Masters grading and age eligibility.
