Bathurst’s new multi-million dollar harness racing complex is almost ready for its official unveiling.
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Harness Racing NSW has confirmed the new facility near the Vale Road will host a grand opening meet on Sunday, October 19.
The ceremonial first sod was turned for the complex – which Harness Racing NSW hopes will breathe new life into the sport in regional NSW – in July last year.
A spokesperson said work on the project, built in the shadows of Mount Panorama, started in August 2013, and although there were construction delays with wet weather, it has been a fairly smooth operation.
Some 20 horses went through their paces on the new surface for the first time on Monday and all reports came back positive.
Bathurst Harness Racing chief executive officer Danny Dwyer said he spoke with many of the trainers and drivers and all of them gave it the thumbs up.
“Like any new track, it will need a settling-in period, but we are more than happy with where it is at. It’s quite advanced,” he said.
“There were three workouts and the faster horses came home their last half in 58.8 seconds, which is a great indicator for fast times down the track.
“I must commend the board of Harness Racing NSW and Bathurst Regional Council for their ongoing support.”
Minister for Gaming and Racing Troy Grant, who is a self-confessed harness racing fan, will also be a special guest on October 19, along with Member for Bathurst Paul Toole and Bathurst mayor Gary Rush.
The club will conduct official trials next Tuesday, October 7 and again on Monday, October 13.
A lead-in meeting will be conducted on Wednesday night, October 15 before the big dance four days later.
The final Bathurst Harness Racing meeting at the Bathurst Showground was held on September 21, where a big crowd gathered to say goodbye to the historic venue.
