Avondale to close under proposed club merger
A proposal to merge the Auckland Racing Club (ARC) and the Counties Racing Club (CRC) has been tabled, which would see a major overhaul of racing in the Auckland region, including the closure of Avondale racecourse.
Under the proposal the two clubs would merge their collective assets, a move that would enable them to more than double their income over the next five years.
In turn, Ellerslie racecourse would be set for a major overhaul, with the installation of a new StrathAyr surface that would be used on at least 40 race days per year. Other predicted benefits of the merger, should the proposal get the green light, include the doubling of the average stake level per race, increasing from NZ$50,000 to NZ$100,000, and the promise of 10 races worth NZ$500,000 and three races worth NZ$1 million.
Avondale would remain in use during the interim construction period required to redevelop Ellerslie, but the latter would become the sole racecourse in the Auckland region thereafter.
Discussions are continuing with the Avondale Jockey Club (AJC) to explore the wider options regarding their role in the current and future of racing in the Auckland region, with the other two Auckland clubs reported to be enthusiastic about including the AJC within the fold.
The AJC will be making recommendations to its members today, to be voted on at the annual general meeting on November 26.
In a joint-letter to members, Auckland Racing Club chairman Doug Alderslade and Counties Racing Club chairman Mark Chitty said the proposal is not finalised, and will now be opened for wider consultation.
“As we have both said in recent months, our clubs need to focus on creating a vibrant and sustainable future for racing in the Auckland region that delivers for all industry participants,” the statement read. “The status quo is simply not sustainable.
“While we must cherish our past, it is essential that we adapt and change as an industry for the betterment of all. There are real and achievable opportunities to significantly improve the financial returns for the industry and to have a new beginning for racing in our region.”