Southern Surge announced for August

A new initiative has been launched to encourage racing in the deep south during the traditionally quieter months.

Called the "Southern Surge", a total of 24 races, worth $440,000 in stakes, will be held in Southland in August. The series is for both pacers and trotters, inclusive of maidens.

A total of 16 $15,000 heats and eight $25,000 finals will be held.

The first two weeks of heats will be at Winton and Invercargill on August 3 and 10 with the Finals at Gore on August 24.

The Southern Surge is only open to horses trained by South of Waitaki-based trainers and/or to horses domiciled with a South of the Waitaki-based trainer as at July 1,2025.

"The reasoning behind this is simple - we just want to provide a stimulus to racing in Southland when things are traditionally quiet," says HRNZ's Head of Racing and Wagering Matthew Peden.

"We want to see more racing which in turn will see more wagering and engagement."  

It's a concept that Southern Harness Racing General Manager and National Racing Bureau member Jason Broad believes will be popular.

"It's exactly the sort of incentive that is needed to get trainers re-thinking their approach about what they do in late winter and spring," says Broad.

"We are hopeful the Southern Surge will grow into a recognized regional racing brand."

Conditions and programmes will be released in the coming weeks.

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