Industry Notice: Prepare for pre-race veterinary checks throughout Summer Carnival

Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) stewards are issuing a timely reminder that pre-race veterinary examinations will be conducted at key races during Thoroughbred Racing Summer Carnival, to ensure safety and animal welfare standards.

Pre-race trot-ups will be conducted the day prior for the following races;

MM The Debut Thursday 19 December trot-up, racing Friday 20 December 2024

BJ McLachlan Stakes Friday 20 December trot-up, racing Saturday 21 December 2024

MM Sunlight Friday 3 January trot-up, racing Saturday 4 January 2025

MM 3YO Guineas Friday 10 January trot-up, racing Saturday 11 January 2025

MM 2YO Classic Friday 10 January trot-up, racing Saturday 11 January 2025

MM The Debut Friday 10 January trot-up, racing Saturday 11 January 2025

Runners who are engaged to compete in the Country Stampede and the Country Cups Challenge Final on Saturday 30 November 2024 will be required to provide a veterinary certificate of fitness by COB Wednesday 27 November 2024, which should be sent to ThoroughbredStewards@qric.qld.gov.au.

Participants are encouraged to be aware of the date and time of their pre-race veterinary check, which will be advised by stewards.

Chief Steward of Thoroughbreds, Josh Adams said the pre-race veterinary checks have been in place for major race meetings since 2023 are integral to reducing on-track incidents.

“We appreciate the great support we’ve received from participants since the introduction of this measure and look forward to working closely with the industry to again ensure the smooth and safe running of the Summer Carnival,” he said.

“We are mindful that 2YO stakes runners may find travel and the stress of a large race day challenging.

“Our pre-race veterinary examinations will ensure the welfare of these animals is prioritised. We thank participants in advance for their support and cooperation to ensure the Summer Carnival runs safely,” he said.

Participants should expect a strong presence from QRIC race day stewards, Compliance Assurance Team stewards, veterinary officers and sample collection officers at race days throughout the Summer Carnival.

QRIC officers work to ensure all race day activities are conducted fairly and safely, in line with community expectations.

For more information, please contact ThoroughbredStewards@qric.qld.gov.au.