The Australian Racing Board today released the ninth edition of the Australian Racing Fact Book, its annual reference guide to the Australian thoroughbred racing industry.
“There is a consistently high level of demand for records relating to the health and performance of the industry. Since first being published in 1999, and with this the 9th edition, our objective for the Fact Book has been to provide the best way to reference key racing industry data” Australian Racing Board Chairman, Bob Pearson, said today.
“In providing a statistical and pictorial account of the past racing season the Fact Book gives us the chance to look back on the many great achievements both on and off the racetrack, while the inclusion this year of greater trend analysis will assist decision makers to shape the future direction of the industry”.
The 2006/07 edition assembles a range of useful facts and figures as a handy guide to any person seeking information on major aspects of the industry, including:
Racing – A total of 2,691 race meetings were conducted in Australia during the 2006/2007 season, with some 31,419 horses running in 19,545 races during the season.
Prizemoney – Prizemoney levels continued to increase across Australia, providing greater returns to owners. Total prizemoney during 2006/07 amounted to $375 million, whilst the total returns to owners were over $427 million.
Breeding – There were 29,070 mares returned, resulting in 17,854 live foals born (61.5%)
Sales – Yearling sale results reached new heights in 2006/07 with a record 5,319 yearlings going under the hammer for a record gross of $367,328,109 (an increase of 20.5% on the previous year). The highest selling yearling at an Australian public auction for the season was a Rock of Gibraltar (IRE) / L’On Vite (USA) colt sold at the William Inglis & Son Easter yearling sale for $3 million.
Ownership – Sole ownership still remains the most popular form of ownership with over 5,466 horses registered this year with one owner.
Betting – Wagering turnover on thoroughbred racing during 2006/07 amounted to $12.85 billion. New South Wales remained Australia's leading wagering jurisdiction accounting for 29.4% of total thoroughbred wagering turnover.
Copies of the Fact Book can be requested from the Australian Racing Board (racingassist@australian-racing.net.au) or downloaded from the website (www.australian-racing.net.au).
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