Tasracing’s introduction of a new wide arm lure on the Launceston greyhound track has been well received by racing participants.
Wide arm lures will be deployed at all three Tasmanian greyhound racing venues with Hobart the next to adopt the system, followed by Devonport.
Trials of the wide arm lure in Launceston were finalised recently, with the system now adopted for racing on a permanent basis.
Wide arm and dual lure systems have been in operation in other jurisdictions for some time and with great success.
When compared to the more traditional loop-arm lure, the wide arm lure reduces interference between greyhounds as they race, reducing the instance of racing injuries. The wide arm lure also reduces the risk of collision with the inside running rail.
The installation of the new lures is in-line with Tasracing’s focus on constantly improving welfare outcomes for racing animals.
Greyhound trainer Michael Louth has been an advocate for the use of wide-arm lures for a long time.
He played a leading role in the project, bringing expertise gained in the design and implementation of wide arm lures in other states.
Louth believes the improvements to safety and welfare for Tasmania’s racing greyhounds will be significant.
“The wide arm lure has resulted in a reduced number of injuries in other states and the system we have implemented here in Tasmania is sure to result in similar outcomes.
“I have longed to see wide-arm lures used in this state because there is no doubt from what we’ve seen interstate that they definitely improve the quality and safety of racing.
Tasracing CEO Paul Eriksson reinforced the significance of the new lure system: ‘Tasracing is committed to constantly seeking improvements to the safety and welfare of greyhounds. This new wide arm lure is a very positive enhancement designed to reduce the incidence of racing injuries for greyhounds. We are looking forward to seeing the new lure design rolled out to Hobart and Devonport in the coming months’.