It's timely that for the last Country Racing perspective we speak to the outgoing Racing SA CEO, Nick Redin. We spoke with Nick to get his thoughts on 24 country racing clubs, and why you should add a country racing meeting to your calendar in the next 12-months.
Tell us about your role within the racing industry.
I’m the current CEO of Racing SA, the governing body for thoroughbred Racing in SA. Our role is to deliver racing for the Clubs, provide the necessary integrity services to ensure racing is on a level playing field, assist with major infrastructure projects, provide career pathways into this wonderful industry, ensure equine welfare is maintained at the highest possible level before during and after a horses racing career.
We look after all the agreements with the wagering partners and broadcast providers. We also promote the broader aspects of the industry, where the individual Clubs look after their own events.
What is your favourite country racing track to visit, and why?
I don’t have a favourite country track. They are all unique and special in their own way. Whether it’s the local engagement at the non-TAB tracks, the vista of Pt Augusta with the Flinders Ranges as its backdrop, Penola who race though the vineyards in the South East, Strathalbyn’s Vignerons meeting, the Balaklava Cup or Oakbank at Easter or Christmas, I enjoy getting around to all the tracks. No two race days are the same. It’s also great that we’re now seeing Saturday racing at Gawler and Murray Bridge.
Why should people plan a day out at a country racing meet?
It is a great way to spend a relaxed day at the races with friends. You can build a race meeting into part of a broader trip or just go for the day. Our tracks are easily accessible with many being within an hour or two from Adelaide and country racing tends to be very family friendly.
Why is the success of country racing so important for the racing industry?
Country racing helps build communities. Often the annual Cup meeting country towns is the biggest social event on the Calendar, it is important for racing to ensure this continues well into the future. Country racing enables us to showcase our sport across the breadth and depth of the State. From Roxby to Kangaroo Island and Penong to Mt Gambier, a state-wide footprint is important. It also provides opportunity for our apprentice riders to develop their craft with all riders starting their race riding careers at a non-TAB or Country meeting. Country Racing plays a vitally important role in the overall sustainability of thoroughbred racing in SA.