Australian Turf Club (ATC) will implement changes to trackwork times at its three training tracks – starting later each morning – to improve health and work outcomes for racing industry participants.
The changes will see later opening times at Royal Randwick (5am), Rosehill Gardens (5.30am) and Warwick Farm (5am) training centres and are the most significant shift in trackwork times in the history of Sydney racing. The new trackwork times will commence on 1 February 2024.
ATC Chairman Peter McGauran said the changes to trackwork start times were historic for Australian racing: “Starting trackwork times later will assist trainers and stables in attracting new workers as well as retaining existing staff,” Mr McGauran said.
“Crucially, it will also help to improve the work and life balance of trackwork riders, stable staff, ATC ground staff, trainers and all those associated with the often unrelenting routine of early morning trackwork.
“The new times factor in unique circumstances of each venue and seek to strike a balance between the requirements of trainers and all industry participants. I thank the NSW Trainers Association and Racing NSW for their input and support with these reforms.”
Details of the changes follow:
Venue
Current trackwork start Proposed trackwork start
Royal Randwick 4.00am 5.00am
Rosehill Gardens 4.45am 5.30am
Warwick Farm 4.00am 5.00am
