SCONE Race Club and Racing NSW have put the welfare of horses first after a last-minute decision to transfer Sunday’s meeting to Wyong.
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The move follows Bureau of Meteorology forecasts which predict a spate of 40-plus degree temperatures over the weekend.
It’s a major setback for the local organisation who was gearing up to host the Longines Golden Slipper Tour on their Inglis Family Race Day on January 21.
Scone Race Club CEO Heath Courtney said Racing NSW made the final decision, which the club supports.
“It was decided last night to have the meeting moved due to the extreme conditions forecast over the coming five days,” he said.
“The animal’s health is paramount and Wyong is expecting a significant difference in temperature – a top of 27 degrees.
“We’re understandably disappointed, and apologetic to the community, however, the welfare of the animal is our main consideration.”
Courtney said the club is well equipped to handle hot conditions, but there are other factors at play.
“We can offer patrons comfort in these conditions, as well as sprinklers and cold towels for the horses, however, we also have to take into consideration the travelling demands of horses to and from the club.”
“We will now look at hosting the Golden Slipper Tour sometime in the near future.”
The club now turns its attention to their Business Race Day on Friday February 23, 2018.