New Zealand bows out of Inter Dominion

Queensland will replace New Zealand in the Inter Dominion rotation after Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) formally advised the Inter Dominion Event Committee (IDEC) and co-Host Partners, Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW), Club Menangle and Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) that they were unable to fulfil their hosting commitments beyond this year’s event in New South Wales.

IDEC Chair, Ken Spicer, who is also a former Board Member of HRNZ, confirmed the news, citing financial uncertainty and a lack of Open Class horses in the country.

“It is disappointing to withdraw from the time-honoured event after one rotation,” Spicer said. “But with Racing Queensland expressing their interest to join the rotation at the first opportunity, it provided a reprieve to exchange positions for the 2023 Championships.

“We are indebted to the team in Queensland for their enthusiasm and support for such a smooth transition, which also provides an opportunity for HRNZ to re-join the Hosting rotation post-2025 should circumstances improve.”

Following this year’s event in NSW, the Inter Dominion will remain showcased on the eastern seaboard of Australia with the Host rotations set in order of Victoria (2022), Queensland (2023) and NSW (2024).

From the IDEC