Track Guru Returns as Plans Take Shape at Menangle Park

July 2004

Dan Coon, the United States track designer who turned Harold Park into one of the best half mile circuits in the world, will be a key figure in the anticipated expansion of the Menangle Park Track.

Menangle Park Forum Paves Way for 1400m Track

November 2004

The Industry Forum at Menangle Park has been hailed it as a step in the right direction in the development of a larger track at the Paceway.

The general consensus at the forum was crystal clear – the harness racing industry in New South Wales is in anxious need of a larger track and, Menangle Park is where it should be established.

“There were a lot of issues raised and the Directors have taken all of these on board and, the forum has shown that there is a lot of interest in a 1400 metre track,” Chief Executive John Dumesny said.

A number of interested speakers voiced their views in encouraging discussions on the requirements for the redevelopment of the Menangle Park facility.

The club initially plans to build the track without the inclusion of lighting around the course, although will put in place infrastructure for lighting if in the future night racing is required.
“At this point in time the club is primarily committed to building a larger track,” Dumesny assured those present.

“It should be pretty simple and clear to everyone…we’ve got an opportunity to build a 1400-metre track, so let’s go ahead and do it,” Brian Hancock told the forum.

“Menangle is ideally located close to Sydney and is convenient for a lot of trainers so, let’s go ahead and do it.”

Hancock, a competitor at some of the largest and finest racing circuits in the World, was convinced the NSW Harness Racing Club is aiming the industry in the right direction with its plans for Menangle Park.

“It’s in a great location and most importantly, it’s a facility that is owned within the industry,” Hancock said.

Trainer John Heath also agreed that the larger track would be a huge benefit to the horses.
“Even if the track was only used as a training track, it would be a lot healthier for the horses,” Heath said.

“The Directors will now take these discussions to the board room with assurance that the industry is behind the decision,” Dumesny said.

“The financial impact and support for the club will require thorough investigation.

“There is still a lot of red tape to cut through, but we are moving in the right direction.”