Following feedback from the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission in relation to trials during race meetings and further consultation with Albion Park, a decision has been reached to schedule all trials prior to harness race meetings in Queensland.
Commencing Monday, July 20, this will assist with integrity, prioritise race day operations and ensures a consistent approach to all race meetings.
A maximum of four trials prior to harness race meetings will apply with the first trial scheduled up to two hours before the first race.
Should ballots be required, RQ Handicappers will determine starters generally in order of horses:
- That are unqualified from the start type;
- Stood down;
- That have not raced or passed a qualifying trial in the last six months;
- Applying for a change of gait or to race unhoppled;
- For re-inclusion into the draw (ODM, RODM, ODS or RODS);
- C-Grade Driver going for license;
- Resuming from a spell, eight weeks or longer;
- That have been balloted from a recent trial; and
- That are being prepared for an upcoming feature race.
The ballot order may vary at the Handicappers' discretion to be fair for those horses that may have recently received a trial ballot or when feature races horses are being prepared for are imminent.
In the case of inclement weather QRIC or Racing Queensland officials may move trials to after the last race or may cancel the trials if necessary.
