Racing Victoria has announced a change in schedule for its Thursday and Friday night meetings, now set to conclude at 8:45 pm during non-daylight saving months of September, April, and May.
However, premier events like the Group 1 Moir Stakes will continue to finish at 9:45 pm.
Matt Welsh, RV Executive General Manager – Racing, explained that the alteration aims to accommodate both fans and participants.
“Night racing is a valuable feature of Victorian racing allowing more fans and punters the opportunity to engage with our sport at a time that best suits them.” Welsh said.
“We see this reflected in our results with Friday night country meetings turning over 20 per cent more than a country meeting on Friday afternoon, while Thursday night country meetings turn over 10 per cent more than Thursday afternoons.”
“On the flip side, we know that for some of our participants night meetings add to their working week and they are keen for earlier finishes.”
The first meeting to adopt the new schedule will be held at Pakenham on Friday, September 1.