We, The Australian Jumps Racing Association, would like to thank you for being a part of an integral component of Victorian Racing. Jumps racing is at the core of staying racing, providing fields for many country races which in turn, supports the broader industry. The jumps racing program is well on its way to becoming recognised as some of the best race days in grassroots racing. With a continual improvement in programming, prize money, race day entertainment, jockey upskilling and community based initiatives it is clear that jumps racing is healthy and continues to improve in leaps and bounds.
In 2019 we were pleased to see that the field sizes are stabilised. A required track rating for jumps racing to be no better than a soft 5 has been seen as a considerable improvement in the progression of equine welfare initiatives and the interest in our sport from New Zealand owners and trainers is on the increase. Safety initiatives implemented by Racing Victoria are working. Our milestones in equine and participant welfare below are expected to continue to evolve and improve.
Throughout the 2020 season, we would like to share with you our continual progress in participant & equine welfare initiatives within our community.
For 2020, we have 5 key areas of focus
- To maintain a professional organisation to support the industry of Australian Jumps Racing.
- To increase crowds at jumps races by working with clubs and industry stakeholders.
- To upskill our jockeys, highlight horsemanship of our trainers and engage our community through improved communication.
- To increase the amount of horses involved in jumps racing and to communicate the recognised demands of retired jumps horses wanted for equestrian disciplines.
- Making welfare projects a high priority for the AJRA and overall improve our social licence to operate.
Wishing you all the best of luck for the 2020 jumps racing season.
Sandy McGregor,
Chairman