KZN racing operator Gold Circle have introduced a commendable new initiative whereby all trainers who have unraced horses scheduled to run will be called on the day after acceptance to get their comments as to the prospects of their respective charges.
The comments will be displayed primarily on info screens that operate in all tote and bookmaker outlets throughout all racing jurisdictions.
The thinking behind the move is the obvious need for transparency to promote the industry and eliminate negative perceptions and it also enjoys the full support of Phumelela and Tellytrack. The racing television channel will assist with the dissemination of the information to the public.
Paul Lafferty – let’s give the public the information
Gold Circle Director Paul Lafferty said that the industry was going through a tough time and there was an urgent need to move forward transparently in line with other sporting codes in order for our product to effectively compete.
“Could you imagine football teams not letting the public know the Manchester United starting line up until five minutes before a game, or the Proteas not announcing their team until they go on to the field? Not having the transparency to give racegoers the information is akin to not letting them know the daily scratchings. Something that would never be done or accepted. They would never allow it and attendances would be severely affected. We have to catch up and give all the participants a better chance,” he said.
Lafferty added that the disclosure of information would have the spin-off of being a natural free marketing opportunity for a trainer who was perceived to know his horses and was transparent.
“We need to be seen to be proactive and encourage confidence in our product,” he said, adding that it was important for everybody to buy in to the commitment in the best and broader interests of the sport.
