Due to concerns over fire activity and heavy smoke conditions in the area around the Port Macquarie race track, officials have decided to cancel the race meeting scheduled for this Thursday.
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The north coast area has been greatly affected by catastrophic bushfires over the past week and the seven-race program has been abandoned for the safety and welfare of horses, participants and patrons.
Air quality remains poor as around fifty blazes still burn in the area, with many still out of control, and with major roads in all directions either closed indefinitely or intermittently cut, the club were left with no alternative than to not proceed with the meeting.
It is hoped that a replacement date can be picked up in the future but the thoughts and prayers of all in racing continue to be with the people who have lost loved ones, property, pets and livestock in the tragic events unfolding.
Great strength goes to the firefighters, support staff, associated personnel and volunteers in their magnificent works regarding the fires and everyone hopes their efforts will soon be rewarded.
The final race meeting for the year is set to be conducted on November 26 with a standalone eight race program scheduled carrying $176,000 in overall prizemoney.
The feature will be an Open Handicap over 1500 metres together with a Benchmark 58 Rising Star event restricted to NSW apprentice riders only.
All roads will lead to Port for New Years Cup day with a six-race program, which has been granted full Sky Racing and TAB coverage.
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