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23 February , 2008
First horses trial Cushion Track surface
After two years of development and seven months of construction the Sunshine Coast Cushion Track opened to a limited group of horses this morning.
Queensland Racing Limited (QRL) chairman Mr Bob Bentley said the Cushion Track trials this morning marked the beginning of an exciting time ahead for racing in Queensland.
“It was encouraging to see horses respond well to the surface and reports from the track today have been extremely positive,” Mr Bentley said.
“This new track is an investment for the future and it should prolong the racing life of our horse population and greatly assist our jockeys.”
Leading Sunshine Coast jockey Ken Pope rode a number of horses on the track this morning and said the track was sensational.
“The track was consistent the entire way round and you could feel the cushion under the horses which relieves the jar from both horse and rider,” Mr Pope said.
Queensland Hall of Fame trainer Bruce McLachlan sent four horses over the surface and said the Cushion Track was fantastic.
“This is the best track surface I’ve seen in the world,” Mr McLachlan said.
“The surface is that consistent and giving that you cannot even hear them galloping past.”
Caloundra premier trainer Trevor Miller also echoed McLachlan and Pope’s praise for the track.
“The Cushion Track will enable us access to a premier training and racing surface no matter what the weather conditions,” Miller said.
For further information please contact QRL chairman Bob Bentley on 0419 964 210.
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