GCA 2020-2021 Group Race Calendar.
Greyhound Clubs Australia (GCA) is today pleased to release the 2020/21 Group Racing Calendar.
As you are well aware, the unprecedented climate amid COVID-19 has made the task of producing the Calendar a more challenging one than those previous.
In reflection of those challenges, GCA has made the decision to publish the document in an electronic format rather the traditional booklet which in past years has been distributed to clubs, media and participants.
We consider this a practical means of being able to update information should the need arise, especially concerning prizemoney levels which for some Group Races are potentially subject to change once Clubs and Controlling Authorities have recalibrated their financial positions after the pandemic.
GCA would sincerely like to thank Brenton Scott for his outstanding work in preparing this year’s calendar and acknowledge the efforts of each State Co-ordinator; Greg Kerr/Jackson Keane (Victoria), Dennis O’Brien (Western Australia), Wayne Billett (New South Wales), Liam Swan (Tasmania), Shaun Mathieson (South Australia) and Doug Lutherborrow (Queensland).
This is the first time that individual state representatives have been used in the collation and co-ordination of national race dates and GCA is very encouraged by the effectiveness and spirit of co-operation of that forum.
GCA also wishes to recognise the input and support of Greyhounds Australasia in the approval process.
Quotes attributed to GCA Executive Officer David Simonette.
“All states realise that many participants have been denied valuable group racing opportunities because of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and there is a sense of trying to recapture some of that lost ground wherever possible.”
“I have been heartened to see Clubs and Authorities do whatever they can to preserve the importance of Group Racing.”
“It hurt us, GCA, not to host the 2020 Nationals in Sydney, along with New South Wales that were unable to stage other time-honoured races such as the Golden Easter Egg.”
“Now it is about the whole of industry to work enthusiastically and in truly collaborative sense to reward breeders, owners, trainers, clubs and fans by staging events for our very best greyhounds.”
“Participants and media are encouraged to refer to the 2020/21 Group Racing Calendar mindful that document was as accurate as possible at time of publication. However, it is everyone’s best interest to check with the relevant Club and/or Authority for surety of detail closer to the date of the event.”
I eagerly look forward to great Group Racing in the year ahead.
David Simonette
Greyhound Clubs Australia
Executive Officer
17 June