Progress continues to be made on the Hawke’s Bay track recambering project, with a recent site walk confirming the work completed to date is tracking well.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) representatives joined Hawke’s Bay Racing Inc., independent track advisor Liam O’Keeffe and Chief Stipendiary Steward John Oatham on-site to review the surface and discuss the next steps in the Return to Racing process. Those on-site noted the positive improvements made, including the smoother camber profile and strong grass coverage across the course. Going Stick readings are also tracking encouragingly, although the most recently laid turf remains slightly firmer and will continue to receive additional irrigation and, if required, further verti-draining.

The track was verti-drained three weeks ago and is scheduled to undergo that process again on Monday 23 March, two weeks ahead of the planned jumpouts. This work is being guided by Going Stick data to help relieve surface tension and support consistency across the track.

Installation of the new Simtrack inside and outside running rail is due to begin next week, while general presentation work around the course, including weed control and tidying of surrounding areas, is also being carried out in preparation for the next phase.

The next key step in the Return to Racing process will be jumpouts on Tuesday 7 April. Subject to those being successful, trials are planned for Tuesday 28 April, followed by a six-race meeting on Thursday 21 May.

The proposed rail positions are:

• Jumpouts: True
• Trials: Out 4m
• Race meeting: True

While this marks another positive step forward, there is still more work to be done as the project continues.