Chairman Jay Abernethy recently presided over the 68th edition of the Trainers & Drivers AGM in Pukekohe. Along with 18 license-holders, Karen Blanchard (ATC) and Catherine McDonald (HRNZ) were also in attendance.

In some circles, the lack of New Zealand representation at the upcoming Queensland carnival has been looked at as a disappointment. However, those who have local racing at heart and don’t particularly care what happens elsewhere, along with the powers that be in HRNZ, should be thrilled.

To be fair, I doubt if anyone but the Russian judge (sorry, an old joke that might not be very PC at the moment) would give the initial Trot Night session much more than a 3 out of 10.

A channel broadcasting harness racing, and only harness racing, will be launched this Friday. For every Friday night for the next six weeks Trot Night will be broadcast on Sky Channel 83 from 5.30pm to 10.30pm. It's a trial its backers hope will become permanent. This week it will feature the two meetings at Alexandra Park and Addington, with all races broadcast live.

I suppose it’s inevitable that, with the passing of time, we will regularly lose harness racing’s household names, but this year, which is only five months old, seems to be particularly bad in that regard.

For decades now, I’m sure you’ve all heard the claim by some trainers that they go too fast at Addington, so we don’t line up there. In fact, it’s been discussed (and disputed) at a number of horseman’s meetings that I’ve attended.

Sadly, this year has seen the passing of two of the unquestionable legends of our Industry, Roy Purdon and Jim Dalgety. Along with Derek Jones, these guys have had enormous influence, both horse and human wise.

It would be a harsh harness racing critic that found fault with “The Race by Grins”. It had everything including Trans-Tasman rivalry, the early expected battle for the lead, moves aplenty, and some wonderful performances, particularly by the first two home. It certainly went a long way to cement the event as a season highlight and a great way to show off our industry and best horseflesh.

Whether you’re being caught up in the hype surrounding next Thursday nights ‘slot’ race or not, it is surprising to see some people slagging off about it. Considering the concept is in its’ infancy, and has come from absolutely nowhere, it’s hard to see any negatives.

I find myself bemused by the kerfuffle over the outcome of the open class pacers race that was scheduled for Alexandra Park this Friday. Unfortunately, it only attracted four entries, three from the one stable, so the sensible decision was made to not run it.