New sand training track positions Albury for growth in horse numbers

Albury Racing Club is hopeful of increasing its resident racehorse population following the completion of a new sand training track at the NSW-Victoria border racing centre.

The new surface, funded by Racing NSW and operational since early December, is designed to attract additional horses by improving training options and safety.

Albury Racing Club chief executive officer Steve Hetherton said construction commenced in winter and was completed on schedule after a six-month build.

Hetherton said the project had been part of the club’s long-term planning.

The new sand track was designed with upgraded drainage to provide a safer training surface and better performance during wet winter conditions.

After a bedding-in period of three to four months, the surface has been well received by local trainers.

Albury now boasts a grass track and two sand tracks, with the new surface wider than the existing sand track and better able to service trainers year-round.

Hetherton said the enhanced facilities position Albury to cater for more horses, with growing the number of locally trained runners now a key priority.

Wyong Race Club has also undergone track upgrades, including a refurbished sand track for slow work and an arena for schooling horses.