July 27, 2017

The Australian Turf Club will not increase track or stable fees for Sydney trainers in the new racing season in a further move to help keep training costs down for thoroughbred owners.

The 2017/18 season will be the third in succession that track fees have not risen, and means all fees charged by ATC for use of metropolitan tracks and stables are generally around just 10 per cent of average daily metropolitan trainers fees.

Australian Turf Club Executive General Manager of Racing James Heddo said the move aimed to continue to encourage more horse ownership.

Mr Heddo said: “The ATC has introduced a range of new benefits for owners in recent months including an Owners Benefits Card in conjunction with the NSWROA, which offers a range of extra benefits and activities for the more than 10,000 owners who have a starter on Sydney tracks each year, including free entry to all ATC metropolitan meetings.

“The decision to not increase fees in the 2017/18 season further demonstrates our commitment to keeping ownership costs at a sustainable level.

“The ATC continues to focus on our racing and training infrastructure program to make Sydney racing a world leader, as well as the most rewarding for owners and thoroughbred syndicates.’’

The ATC announcement was today welcomed by the NSW Trainers Association and the NSW Racehorse Owners Association.

NSWROA President Ray McDowell said: “We extend our sincere thanks to the ATC on yet another great initiative in our desired dual objective of increasing racehorse ownership”.