Racing Victoria (RV) has unveiled a series of minor adjustments to its protocols for the 2023 Spring Racing Carnival. The changes follow a comprehensive review by RV’s working group, which consists of integrity, veterinary, equine welfare, and racing experts. The group gathered feedback from various industry stakeholders, including Australian and international private veterinarians, regulatory veterinarians, trainers, jockeys, owners, primary service providers, and Victoria’s racing clubs.
The most notable changes include:
- Radiographs (X-Rays) will no longer be mandatory but may be directed to be undertaken at RV’s discretion.
- The pre-travel inspection and imaging window will now open earlier on August 1 for all international horses, closing one week prior to a horse entering pre-export quarantine.
- All international horses, including those travelling on a one-way ticket, will remain at Werribee until Champions Stakes Day on November 11 or until after their last Spring Racing Carnival start, if earlier.
RV also plans to improve operational communication methods and processes by appointing a case manager for international contenders. Additionally, it aims to renew its focus on attracting Japanese horses back to Melbourne for the Spring Carnival. Japanese horses have not participated in Victoria’s spring events since Lys Gracieux won the Cox Plate in 2019.
Regarding the changes, RV Executive General Manager of Integrity Services, Jamie Stier, stated, “Through our annual review of the Spring Racing Carnival and ongoing consultation with relevant stakeholders, we continue to make minor adjustments to the veterinary protocols to enhance their practical application, whilst maintaining our high safety standards.”
Stier emphasized that communication improvements would be a key focus for the organization in 2023, saying, “What will change in 2023 is our communication with connections throughout the process. We are committed to enhancing that and ensuring we deliver timely and informative updates where possible.”
This year marks the 30th anniversary of international participation in Victoria’s Spring Racing Carnival, and RV’s racing and veterinary teams will work closely together to welcome international competitors back to Melbourne.
