Richmond Straight Track to race behind drag lure system from October 2023
Greyhound Racing New South Wales (GRNSW) is introducing a significant change to its operations at the Richmond Straight track.
Beginning October 1 2023, a drag lure system will replace the existing arm lure, a decision fuelled by the organisation's quest for continuous safety improvement.
The decision to transition to a drag lure system is a result of extensive trials conducted at Richmond earlier this year.
These trials were not undertaken lightly; they involved in-depth consultations with trainers and thorough analysis of video footage and data.
The arm lure, which has been in operation since the track opened in April 2021, will make way for the new, safety-enhancing drag lure system.
GRNSW CEO Rob Macaulay expressed his pleasure at the forthcoming change, stating, “We're excited to usher in the use of a drag lure at Richmond Straight Track from October 1.
“The switch is the culmination of a successful series of trials at Richmond and is in response to popular demand.”
The benefits of the drag lure system are two-fold: it promotes safer racing conditions by ensuring dogs are spread out across the track, and anecdotal evidence from trainers suggests it encourages better chasing behaviour from dogs that might be wary of a lure in the air.
The introduction of the drag lure system at Richmond is just one example of GRNSW's ongoing efforts to promote safety in the sport.
The organisation is persistently exploring a variety of methods to improve safety.
This commitment is evident in the multitude of track upgrades occurring throughout the state, as well as the extensive testing leading to the adoption of the drag lure system.
Macaulay expressed his gratitude towards the various stakeholders who have contributed to this development.
He said, “A sincere thank you to all the trainers, club staff, and stewards who have collaborated on this process and provided their encouragement.”
Reiterating GRNSW's commitment to safety, Macaulay added, “We are fully dedicated to improving and ensuring safer outcomes at all our racetracks. The transition to a drag lure is part of this ongoing commitment.”
This latest initiative aligns with previous trials of a double-arm lure at two NSW tracks – Dapto and The Gardens.
These trials also aimed to promote safety by spreading dogs out across the track's width.
In another step towards innovation, Macaulay announced the impending installation of a rail-mounted drag lure on a new rail system at the slipping track on GRNSW property adjacent to the Richmond Racetrack.
This addition caters to trainers desiring to train their dogs using the drag lure, solidifying GRNSW's commitment to safety and continual improvement in the sport.