All-weather racing returns to Gore

Racing is set to return to the all-weather track at Gore on September 28.

At this week's HRNZ Board meeting it was decided that the Gore all-weather track could be used again as a race day venue while the current National Venue Plan is underway.

The final plan, which will guide how races and resources are distributed across New Zealand's racing venues, is expected to be delivered by October 2024.

The all-weather track at Gore has not held meetings since 2020, though has been retained as a busy training facility in the meantime. Its grass track has continued to be used, while the club's all-weather meetings have been held at Wyndham, 30 kilometres away.

"The Gore committee is delighted that the board has decided to allow racing back on the all-weather track that has a long history of harness racing in New Zealand," says Gore Harness Racing Club president Ross Cleland.

"Now being fully engaged back at Gore it will enable us to reconnect with our very supportive sponsors and community. Gore is a hub for not only racing and training in Southland but also ownership and breeding."

The September 28 return was confirmed after discussions with Entain, the operators of the TAB, as the meeting was programmed to be held at Wyndham.

"Entain has been very accommodating following the board's decision this week," says HRNZ General Manager Racing, Catherine McDonald, "and it has been seamless to switch venues, that's something we are very grateful for."

Gore is also scheduled to host meetings on December 27, and on the grass in February next year.