Racing industry raises more than $60k for West Coast community

The NZ Racing Board today announced that through the TAB more than $54,000 has been raised for the Pike River Disaster Relief Trust. The TAB donated 5 cents for every tote bet placed off-course on West Coast racing events over the summer holidays as part of the Racing for the Coast initiative; and established a special West Coast Racing Appeal Account for TAB account customers to donate into. Auckland Racing Club has also donated over $6,000 to the Pike River Disaster Relief Trust.

Racing for the Coast, led by leading race caller Tony Lee, saw a series of racing events held throughout the West Coast between December 26 and January 15. Owners and trainers from around the country gathered in Westport, Reefton, Kumara, Hokitika and Greymouth to rally support and make the events bigger than ever.

NZ Racing Board Chief Executive, Andrew Brown said it was heartening that the racing industry and TAB customers got behind Racing for the Coast.

“We’re extremely pleased that we exceeded our $50,000 target donation, thanks to all the clubs, trainers, owners, jockeys, suppliers and punters that got behind this idea. Racing plays an important role in bringing communities together, and we are glad to be able to support this community through these trying times.”

Tony Lee also expressed his gratitude to all parties who supported the initiative. “I’m absolutely thrilled with the success of these racing events. Its been an especially tough time for the West Coast community so we hope that these events have been a chance for families and friends to get together and have a well deserved day out at the track”, says Lee.

Tony Lee anticipates that the total amount of donations from across the industry could reach $100,000.

Funds donated to the Pike River Disaster Relief Trust will be used to alleviate financial hardship for anyone directly affected by the Pike River Mine tragedy.

ENDS

© Scoop Media