Commencing on 6 September, The Meadows’ Wednesday race meetings (MEP) will shift to the ‘Night’ time slot for a trial period until the end of March 2024.
The change will see The Meadows join Ballarat as the regular host of Wednesday night race meetings in a move that has proven successful in the past and is expected to prove popular with participants and punters alike.
“In these challenging times GRV and the clubs explore all options available to maximize the exposure of the racing product as well as the returns to the industry and this change is one such example of GRV and clubs working together in an attempt to improve the outcomes for all concerned,” said GRV’s General Manager Racing, Troy Harley.
“Our analysis suggests the change will have a positive impact on wagering and increase the support for The Meadows’ provincial meeting from participants by way of nominations and attendance,” Harley added.
The MGRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Wuchatsch is equally as confident about the change.
“From a club perspective we are confident the change will see an uplift in attendance and hospitality figures. This, added to the anticipated positive wagering impact, can only be a good thing for The Meadows and the broader industry,” Wuchatsch said.
“The Club has had to make some operational changes and a review of key metrics will take place towards the end of the trial, but we believe that the need to innovate and explore growth opportunities is a key responsibility of all clubs.”