There has to be questions about the value of the recent Sapere reports that were commissioned to investigate the viability of racecourses in Southland and Canterbury. I have no idea of the costs involved, but judging by the results to date, on the face of it, they appear to be too high.

It was disappointing to see the timing of the Christchurch edition of this event (9.30am), particularly from the point of view of horse trainers. On enquiring from the TAB, I found that this situation was brought about by the late planning due to having to wait for the Ministerial approval,

It seems to be widely accepted that the Country Cups Final the other week was one of the best races witnessed for a long time.

A number of years ago, the Association’s National Council asked me to find out if the NZ Vet Association would provide a list of withholding time for various drugs and treatment, in other words, how long after a treatment a horse could race, without providing a positive swab result.

At a recent hearing over whip use concerning visiting Australian driver Shannon O’Sullivan, there were some revealing statements.

After what seemed to be an unnecessary delay, the RIB has released the promised video to assist in understanding the whip rules, to what have been mixed reviews.

A few months ago, a plea to trainers to get their act together and have horses ready to go on time on trial days seemed to have a positive effect.

You can now view and set the 'Accountable Person' through your My HRNZ account.

Following a meeting with the Trainers & Drivers Assn, the Racing Integrity Board has, in conjunction with Trackside, produced a video outlining what is, and is not, acceptable in regards to whip use by drivers.

The Association has received an update on various aspects of the stable audits they are currently conducting. See below: