Stawell Cup day postponed over safety of track

Racing Victoria’s Regional Mid-West Stewards Manager, Jason Shultz, has explained the circumstances that led to the abandonment of the 2025 Stawell Gold Cup meeting.

“The track had been aerated yesterday, and there were barer sections of the track,” Shultz said.

“When you get down, the aerator really seems to have loosened them up, and you can pick up noticeable chunks out of the surface.”

Concerns over the safety of the surface were echoed by riders upon inspection, and the decision to postpone was made swiftly by stewards without requiring a formal vote.

“The riders didn’t feel it was suitable, and we were in agreeance… we didn’t go to a vote. We, as the stewards, declared it was unsuitable for racing and therefore postponed the meeting,” Shultz explained.

“Very unfortunate for everyone involved – the club, the riders, the participants. It’s terrible, but that’s the cards we’ve been dealt with, unfortunately.”

The choice to aerate the surface came just one day prior to raceday, in a bid to enhance consistency across the course. However, that effort appeared to backfire, with visible damage and turf lifting occurring in the barer sections of the track.

“The track was inspected 10 days ago and then it was inspected again yesterday,” Shultz continued.

“That was when the decision was made to aerate the track, just to try and get it somewhat more consistent.”

“When we get on course, which is normally two hours before the first race, we go and have a look at it, and then when the riders get on course, the majority of them go and have a look at it.”

Shultz noted that while aeration is common and often problem-free, each track’s unique composition makes outcomes unpredictable.

“It is (tricky). I’ve seen it done plenty of times the day prior to a meeting without any issues. Obviously, every track and soil profile is different, but here, some of the barer areas appear to be where the problem lies.”

He also acknowledged the broader challenges facing the region due to persistent dry conditions.

“Everywhere you go in this area, it’s extremely dry. Racecourses are about the only green thing you see around. It’s tough, and obviously we’ll have a discussion with RV and the club with what we do moving forward.”

A final decision on whether the Stawell Gold Cup meeting will be rescheduled is expected within the next 48 hours.