Return of Ouyen Pacing Cup a big success
Posted on 22 January, 2012
The return of racing to Ouyen has been hailed a success with a strong crowd turning out to enjoy the first raceday at Blackburn Park since 2005.
Minister for Racing Denis Napthine said it was great to see such strong support for harness racing in the local community.
“Today’s $25,000 Ouyen Pacing Cup can be officially declared a big success with about 2000 people witnessing a magnificent day of harness racing action,” Dr Napthine said.
“This has been a fantastic endorsement for harness racing in Ouyen and proves that the previous Labor government’s decision to close down six country tracks was a grave mistake.
“The Ouyen community made it loud and clear that they did not want to lose their harness racing and the crowd that came out to Backburn Park today show’s there is still strong support for the sport.
“Today’s meeting has been a significant boost for local trainers, drivers, breeders and racegoers. It has also been a great result for broader community with a large number of attendees coming from other areas and spending money at local businesses,” Dr Napthine said.
Member for Mildura Peter Crips said today’s event was a fitting reward for the people of the Ouyen Harness Racing Club who had worked hard to see the return of racing to their community.
“The club has put in an exceptional effort to re-open this racetrack and today’s success is a fitting reward for all of their hard work,” Mr Crisp said.
“The Victorian Coalition Government is proud to have supported the return of harness racing to Ouyen by providing $75,550 to bring the track up to a safe standard.”
Throughout 2012 harness racing will continue to return to the other five racetracks closed under the previous government.