Racing SA, Media Release, 2 September 2021
Racing SA is pleased to announce construction of the inner-turf training track at Murray Bridge Racing Club’s Gifford Hill facility has commenced.
The inner-turf track, which will be 15 metres wide and 1654 metres in circumference once completed, is an important addition to the ongoing development of Murray Bridge Racing Club as a training centre for excellence.
The infrastructure will take some of the load off the facility’s main track, allowing for the ongoing growth in horse and trainer numbers at the precinct as a result of the new on-course stables which are expected to be completed early next year.
The project has been strongly supported by the Marshall Liberal Government via the $2.5m racing stimulus package which is funding a number of important projects aimed at protecting and creating local jobs as well as making SA racing more competitive. The Club has also benefited from an additional $5 million funding commitment in the 2020/21 State Budget which, supplemented with funding from Racing SA, will support the new stables and construction of a 70-metre equine pool.
Racing SA CEO Nick Redin said the inner-turf track would complement the other first-class facilities which are attracting local and international industry participants to Murray Bridge.
“The inner track is the latest infrastructure project which reinforces Racing SA’s commitment to providing ongoing infrastructure development to enhance the industry and stimulate growth in the horse population in South Australia,” Redin said.
“The inner turf track will not only help protect the racing surface at Murray Bridge, but will also allow the training centre to accommodate the projected growth resulting from the on-course stabling project.”
Work on the track has commenced this week with the final section of turf to be laid by early December 2021.
It is anticipated, subject to weather conditions, that the track will be in use by late March or early April 2022.
Murray Bridge Trainers’ Committee President Karen Byrnes said local trainers were excited about the commencement of works.
“The inner track is something that we really need, as the main track is currently shouldering a big load,” Byrnes said.
“On a busy morning, as many as 120 horses are currently working on the main track, so this additional track will really help to take the pressure off it.
“Together with the sand track, it’s really going to boost the facilities available here at Murray Bridge with a range of different training environments on offer for the horses.”
