October
JulyThin end of wedge
Every little change made by racing to appease minority groups adds fuel for future demands.
I have no idea why we have to pander to these groups. They are not our target audience and have no passion now or ever about our sport, but impact it in such a big way.
Padded whips were a great introduction. We are animal lovers in racing and we all know jockeys carrying a whip is necessary both for the integrity of wagering and for safety. However, to appease, we then add in usage regulations for the whip, affecting the potential performance of runners, safety of jockeys and confidence of punters.
NSW then announces a ban on greyhound racing. This is widely cheered by people with no interest in racing, animal lobby groups, some media and politicians beating their chests.
No consideration is given to impacts on employment, associated services, even people living off superannuation being potentially affected via shares in TABs.
These lobbyists and do-gooders will move on to other racing codes, no doubt.
Racing Australia is now forcing breeders of thoroughbreds to have every foal registered and bound by the rules of racing. I think this will be manageable to the major corporate breeder but will be another nail in the coffin for the small hobby breeder. It will be an additional cost to owners and yet another disincentive to be involved in the sport.
I have no interest in greyhound racing — it’s not my sport — but good luck to those who love it. I fear when it’s not around the pressure will mount on the thoroughbred industry. Jumpers are always on the receiving end of criticism and these groups will move on to flat racing if they smell blood.
I’d rather racing administrators focus on those that care for the sport, rather than those who hope for its demise and will never be fans.
Ensure the game is healthy and safe, punters protected, owners encouraged, its employees confident and positive. It will be fine.
Racings been around and loved for hundreds of years. We don’t need reactionary racing administrators and politicians killing the golden goose, just on the off chance that those who don’t love our game may “perceive” it in a better way.
Racing’s a great sport, thousands live off it, thousands just love it. Don’t bugger it up.
Burleigh Heads (Qld)