Racing Victoria slams ‘misconceived’ legal threat from Racing NSW

Racing Victoria has issued a brutal response to Racing NSW’s legal action against it and other racing authorities.

More than 70,000 packed Flemington last November to watch Gold Trip win the Melbourne Cup. Picture: Getty Images

Racing Victoria has ridiculed the legal threat brought on by the NSW combatant as “misconceived”.

Racing NSW and chairman Russell Balding are named plaintiffs in the NSW Supreme Court application served on five principal racing authorities, including Queensland and South Australia, and associated executives.

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Racing NSW wants “a variety of documents” from state-based regulators and executives, including Racing Australia director Greg Nichols and RV chairman Brian Kruger, to assess its grounds for litigation.

News Corp has established RV has opposed the application.

Racing Queensland elected not to comment.

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The matter will be “vigorously contested” before the NSW Supreme Court on February 15.

RV chief executive Andrew Jones provided a pointed statement to News Corp on Thursday.

“The matter is before the courts so we will not talk to the matters in dispute, other than to say RNSW’s litany of complaints will be vigorously contested,” Jones said.

“We will say that we’ve worked hard for some time to bring all states together for the betterment of Australian racing.

Racing NSW and chairman Russell Balding (right), pictured with chief executive Peter V’landys, are named plaintiffs in the NSW Supreme Court application. Picture: Hollie Adams-The Australian

“Racing Australia’s paralysis has halted much needed progress and reform on key industry issues such as whip reform and equine welfare.

“That one PRA is suing five other PRAs speaks for itself. Racing NSW’s decision to take legal action is misconceived and does nothing to resolve any current industry issues.

“Racing Victoria’s focus remains growing the audience for racing, not politics between the PRAs.

“We are excited to launch the Festival of Racing, which kicks off with the CF Orr Stakes (at Sandown) this Saturday, as racing fans are too.”

Racing Australia, the industry’s peak body, has barely met the past two years due to the largely NSW-led angst against Victoria and others.

Fairfax Media reported RNSW’s concern about “anti-competitive behaviour” triggered the legal threat.

RNSW chief Peter V’Landys said in the article: “We’re seeking documents because we’re concerned about anti-competitive behaviour.”

Originally published as Racing Victoria slams ‘misconceived’ legal threat from Racing NSW