Feature racing set down for winter

TOOWOOMBA horses will be allowed to enter the winter features set down by Racing Queensland.

Steven Tregea’s Bergerac competed in a number of winter features last season. Photo: File

RACING: After looking doomed just weeks ago, feature racing across Queensland is set to take shape, beginning next month.

Late last month the decision was made to scrap the premier racing period of the state, including the jewel in Queensland’s crown, the Stradbroke Handicap.

However the decision has been overturned, with RQ scheduling 26 black-type races, including two Group 1 events, across a six-week period.

It begins on May 9 at Doomben, culminating on June 13, with the feature Stradbroke and JJ Atkins events to take place at Eagle Farm on June 6.

The South West Metro zone will hold just one feature race day, at the Gold Coast on May 16, with the Gold Coast Guineas (3YO), Silk Stocking (fillies and mares) and Ken Russell Memorial Classic (2YO).

Despite the vast majority of events taking place in the Metro North region, RQ has announced that conditional travel will be permitted, allowing Toowoomba horses to take part in racing outside of its zone.

Restrictions on all human movement will still be in place, meaning trainers and stable representatives won’t be permitted to cross zone borders.

However horses are allowed to travel via commercial transport providers on the morning of the race.

Prizemoney cuts will take place across the feature races, however RQ chairman Steve Wilson said in a statement that it was necessary to ensure viability of the industry.

“These are tough times and we must make a collective sacrifice. By programming selected features, we are able to provide enhanced opportunities for our Queensland participants,” he said.

“We all know any prize money cuts hurt but we are committed to providing our participants with hope as they navigate the social, economic and health challenges.”

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