By XAVIER SMERDON
JUMPS racing will be returning to the Werribee Racing Club later this month after a 10 year absence from the track.
Two jumps races will be held on the Community Clubs Race Day on Tuesday 25 June, marking an incredible turnaround for the club which was once in danger of never holding races of any kind ever again.
Jumps trials were held at Werribee last Wednesday, ahead of the historic race meeting.
Werribee Racing Club General Manager, Ross Kendell, said it was almost strange to see hurdles on the turf in Werribee again.
“I never dreamed that we would have jumps racing here again. It never even crossed my mind,” Mr Kendell said.
“The track is really well suited though and the jockeys seem to be loving it.”
Horse trainer Eric Musgrove said Werribee was becoming a premier venue to race at.
“The track is in excellent condition. In comparison to some of the places that we’ve raced or trialled at it is definitely superior,” Mr Musgrove said.
“It’s a good venue to have jumps racing at because it is in a central proximity to a lot of places.
“It’s a big turnaround; it’s a great place to school and trial.”
Racing Victoria’s Racing Operations Manager, Paul Bloodworth, told Star it was possible that more jumps races could be held every year in Werribee.
“This all came about from some of the trainers wanting more options to race on different tracks,” Mr Bloodworth said.
“It’s a good sign that the club’s on the way back.”
