Change to Great Southern Star conditions

Harness Racing Victoria has changed the conditions for Australasia’s premier trotting series, the Pryde’s Easifeed Great Southern Star.

 

From 2016 there will still be two heats and a final run on the one night with the winner of each heat to qualify for the final.

 

The remainder of the field will be made up of the next fastest qualifiers from the heats.

 

The big change will be that the barrier draw for the final will now be a random barrier draw instead of an opportunity barrier draw.

 

HRV General Manager – Operations Vaughn Lynch said the changes were made out of concern at the effect on wagering of having the best horses being able to choose their barrier in the final.

 

“We are also hopeful the heats will be run at a faster pace as drivers will be eager to go fast enough to ensure their horse qualifies for the final,” Lynch said.

 

“Punters want competitive racing.”