HRNSW welcomes new tiered prizemoney structure

Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) will introduce a new tiered prizemoney structure designed to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of harness racing across the state.

Effective from January 1, 2026, races will be categorised into three tiers at all HRNSW meetings, ensuring prizemoney is aligned with class and performance level:

• Tier A – Higher-Class Races at $11,600 (NR80–120, 2YO, 3YO): Elevated prizemoney to reward the sport’s highest performers and juvenile racing.
• Tier B – Mid-Tier Races at $9,600 (NR55–79, Two-Lifetime-Win): To support the development of competitive horses progressing through the ranks.
• Tier C – Entry-Level Races at $6,800 (NR30–54, Maiden and One-Lifetime-Win): Increased prizemoney to encourage participation, provide returns for progressive horses, and underpin the base of the industry.

The revised structure balances fairness, growth, and sustainability according to HRNSW Chief Executive Peter Buckman.

“The introduction of the tiered system ensures that prizemoney is both aspirational and accessible,” said Buckman.

“Tier A recognises the excellence of our top-class horses and encourages enhanced juvenile racing, Tier B supports the vital mid-tier that drives week-to-week competition and Tier C ensures owners and trainers with horses either progressing through or coming back to the lower levels are still rewarded.”

The decision follows extensive consultation with participants and stakeholders, with overwhelming feedback from industry desirous of a tiered prizemoney structure. The decision focuses on ensuring prizemoney distribution supports all levels of the industry.

“Harness Racing NSW is committed to creating an environment where participants can be rewarded for their investment into the sport,” said Buckman.

“This new structure delivers meaningful returns across the board, while ensuring long-term financial sustainability for the sport, and importantly there is no reduction of prizemoney with the minimum levels remaining the same.”

In addition, HRNSW will also implement a payment to trainers in races under $15,000 who place 6th to 10th. This will be applied to all races across NSW at the following level:

The tiered prizemoney model and trainers’ payments will commence from January 1, 2026, with full prizemoney schedules available on the HRNSW website.

HRNSW RACING CONTACT:

BRETT SCELLY | GM RACING & INFRASTRUCTURE

bscelly@hrnsw.com.au • (02) 9722 6614

From Harness Racing New South Wales