Racing: Clubs settle differences over V8s at Pukekohe

The chairman of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, Guy Sargent, announced yesterday that the Counties Racing Club and the Auckland Racing Club had settled their differences over the potential hosting of the V8s at Pukekohe in autumn next year.

"There was positive dialogue between both clubs, and the development of the Pukekohe training track as a centre for equine excellence will not be compromised by possible staging of the Australian V8s event," Sargent said.

"I look forward to the positive results this partnership can bring to thoroughbred racing in the Auckland region."

Auckland Racing Club chief executive Chris Weaver said:

"We are pleased that we have resolved this matter and that the training facility and the environment for the horses at Pukekohe will not be compromised."

Counties Racing Club general manager, Greg Mitchell, said the way was now clear to continue discussions with the V8 operators.

The club had the view of channeling the positive financial impact from staging such an event back into the sport of racing.