Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) wishes to thank participants for their ongoing vigilance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This virus looks set to be with us all for a while, but together we can look after one another and give ourselves the best chance to continue racing safely if we take all precautions.

HRV is encouraging all participants to be particularly vigilant around tracks in municipalities where COVID-19 is significantly active, such as within the local government areas of Hume, Casey and Melton.

All our racetracks have strict entry conditions and protocols to comply with government directives and keep you safe.

If participants are travelling through COVID-19 hotspots to attend the races we strongly recommend they not stop to visit shops and other businesses (i.e. restaurants, fast food outlets, supermarkets, petrol stations) in those areas.

We also recommend that participants bring their own food and refreshments to the track as there will be no serving of food on course at Tabcorp Park Melton, Cranbourne and Kilmore.

From Monday July 27, participants who leave the track at any stage during a race meeting at Tabcorp Park Melton, Cranbourne or Kilmore will not be permitted re-entry.

From Monday July 27 the wearing of face masks and face coverings will be mandatory at all harness racing tracks across Victoria. HRV has made this decision to further reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.

From tomorrow night (Saturday July 25) all drivers will be required during post-race interviews to have a mask in their possession. Drivers are exempt from wearing a mask during a post-race interview, but must wear a mask immediately upon the conclusion of the interview. 

In line with government directions, the wearing of a mask or face covering is not compulsory during a race or trial. However, HRV strongly encourages drivers to wear a face covering such as pulling up their skivvy or the wearing of a ski mask to cover the mouth and nose.

This is a time for the industry to work together and we thank all participants for their cooperation. Together we can give our industry the best shot at racing safely through the COVID-19 pandemic.