Punters not yet back at trots track

Equine entertainment: Ballarat & District Trotting Club puts on 38 race meetings in a typical year. Photo: FILE

THE harness racing atmosphere at Ballarat & District Trotting Club hasn’t felt quite the same for competitors throughout the pandemic period without cheering crowds.

But general manager operations, Ash Madder said his staff and those coming to compete at Bray Raceway are thankful that their sport has been able to continue, mindful of COVID safety measures.

“It’s been different, but we’ve been following strict protocols while racing, with social distancing throughout the track where possible, and everyone’s done a fantastic job to abide by them,” he said.

“We’ve also had temperature checks for everyone when they enter the track.

“To start with, it was unusual with no spectators, and it look us a while to get used to it, but it has become the new normal.”

While many industries have had to rein in operations, the opportunity to race has not only supported horses to maintain their form. It has given riders and teams a leg-up during a time of widespread economic challenge and uncertainty.

“It’s great for participants that they’ve still got an income for their families,” Mr Madder said.

Ballarat & District Trotting Club’s Flying Horse Bistro and entertainment venue opened its doors last week, serving meals seven days a week.

With this extra action returning to the Redan site as some restrictions ease, Mr Madder said staff “can’t wait” to have patrons not just inside, but back outside and next to the track, enjoying some live harness racing.

“Now, we’re just waiting for information from government bodies and Harness Racing Victoria. We’re hanging out for any more news as it comes to hand.

“We’re doing everything we can to have people back as soon as possible, so we can hit the ground running as that’s announced,” he said.

For now, Mr Madder said those missing the sport they love, or keen to discover the trots, can still get their fix of Bray Raceway’s equine action on Sky Racing, or HRV media platform, Trots Vision via thetrots.com.au.

Races are also broadcast live through RSN radio, 927AM.