Activist Denies Responsibility for Track Damage
In a surprising turn of events, leading horse rights activist Elio Celotto has vehemently denied any involvement in the damage caused to the Gold Coast racetrack at Bundall. The venue, set to host the final day of the Gold Coast Magic Millions, was forced to relocate the first day of the carnival due to the track’s discolouration.
Celotto firmly stated, “Animal activists are there because they care about the animals, they’re not going to put any horses more in jeopardy by doing something like that.” He urged race organizers to take responsibility for the track’s condition themselves, shifting the focus away from activists.
Race Meeting Relocated to Sunshine Coast
Amid safety concerns, the twilight race meeting was swiftly moved to the Sunshine Coast, where the Sunshine Coast Turf Club CEO, John Miller, reported “above-average” crowds for the main race, the $3 million Sunlight Plate. Despite the unexpected change in location, the event attracted up to 1,400 enthusiastic racegoers.
Miller expressed relief that all races were successfully conducted and acknowledged the efforts put in to ensure a seamless transition from Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast. The last-minute move was met with excitement and positivity from both participants and spectators, making for a memorable racing experience.
Efforts to Prepare for Main Race Day
As preparations continue for the carnival’s main race day, scheduled for January 11, uncertainty looms over the readiness of the Gold Coast track. Course officials are racing against time to ensure the venue is fit to host the prestigious event, with potential buyer Rikki McDonald expressing confidence in the race proceeding as planned.
Despite frustrations over the track’s condition, stakeholders like trainer Clinton Taylor and jockey Ashley Morgan remain optimistic about participating in the upcoming races. Taylor praised Racing Queensland for their swift actions in relocating the race meeting, emphasizing the successful execution despite the challenging circumstances.
Conclusion: Racing Community’s Resilience
Amidst the chaos and uncertainties surrounding the Magic Millions carnival, the resilience and adaptability of the racing community shine through. From activists advocating for animal welfare to trainers and jockeys navigating last-minute changes, the spirit of the sport prevails.
As the countdown to the main race day continues, the collective efforts of all involved in the racing industry are a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport. With hopes high and preparations underway, the Magic Millions 2023 promises to be a showcase of athleticism, camaraderie, and unwavering determination.