New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing [NZTR] and Auckland Thoroughbred Racing [ATR] would like to provide an update on the 'Return to Racing' for Ellerslie Racecourse.

Following the Club's abandonment on Wednesday 10 April, all work that was prescribed has now been completed.

A set of eight trials were held successfully at Ellerslie Racecourse today [Monday 15 April] giving the Club clearance to return to racing. 

A number of industry personnel and senior jockeys were in attendance at the trials Monday to monitor the surface including representatives from; Strathayr, the Racing Integrity Board, NZTR and ATR. 

The overarching feedback NZTR and ATR received following the trials was positive. Senior Jockeys Warren Kennedy provided comment on the improvement of the track after riding several heats.

"The track felt a lot better – they [ATR] obviously had done a lot of work on it since Wednesday," Kennedy said.

"The horses are getting a good bit of traction and there’s actually a bit of kick back now, which highlights the more traction the horses are getting."

Senior Jockey Craig Grylls was also on hand to give insight into the improved quality. 

"I noticeably felt more traction and more give in the track," he said.

"The machinery work and the spreading of sand since last Thursday has certainly seen an improvement.” 

The first race meeting set to be held back at Ellerslie will be Saturday 20 April 2024. We extend our gratitude to Chris Hay from Elwick Racecourse for his assistance and advice post-abandonment.