Addington bosses are on the lookout for the next Keayang Zahara.
The Victorian superstar trotter came to New Zealand last year and won the first running of the $500,000 Ascent, one of two slot races for three-year-olds run on Show Day, the second day of NZ Cup week racing at Addington.
She went on to win the NZ Trotting Derby and Oaks for a triple crown.
Slots for both the Ascent and the pacing equivalent, the Velocity, are now being offered as the countdown to Cup week begins.
Stage one of the slot race process has been completed, with strong interest from those involved last year in both the Majestic Horsefloats LP Accent and the Hill, Lee and Scott Velocity.
“We have seen good support from last year’s slot holders and a number of enquiries from groups keen to be involved this year,” said Slot Race Club co-ordinator Greg O’Connor.
“Not surprisingly, we have fielded a number of calls from Australia as they have realised they can be part of Cup week and then race in either the Derby or Oaks for either gait the following week. This makes it a very attractive proposition.”
Whilst slot racing was introduced by Cambridge with The Race some three and half years ago, it is still new ground for many. So with last year’s experience under their belts, those who have renewed this year now have a better understanding of how they work.
The process now shifts to those wanting to purchase a slot this year, with applications open for the next 10 working days and closing on Friday, August 29 at 4pm.
“This follows the same timeline as last year, giving everybody a fair opportunity of being part of this unique experience,” O’Connor said.
For anyone wanting more information on purchasing a slot this year, email greg@addington.co.nz
