New dog track to give code certainty
Prominent greyhound trainer Keith Harding says Cannington's proposed new racetrack will boost the WA chasing industry.
He said owners, trainers and breeders would invest confidently now they had confirmation on the sport's future headquarters.
Harding, who has trained five WA greyhounds of the year, is among 30 nominees for induction to _The West Australian _Racing Industry Hall of Fame on November 15.
Panels appointed by Racing And Wagering WA selected candidates from across thoroughbred, harness racing and greyhound codes. Judges will choose 15 finalists for induction in a ceremony at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Greyhounds WA, preparing to vacate the Cannington Showground track which adjoins Albany Highway, have announced a modern circuit will be opened next year on land east of the current racing site.
"Local greyhound breeding dropped as a result of uncertainty on racing at Cannington," Harding said.
"Investment in other aspects of the industry was also down.
"But it's about to take off with clearance of doubts the new track will go ahead."
Harding's WA greyhounds of the year have been Elektra (2008), Ultimate Rebel (2001), Gemarly Park (1997), Capobianco (1991) and Afro Freeway (1983).
"Elektra had lost form when sent to me from Victoria," he said. "We rebuilt her confidence and she had brilliant finishing bursts in feature events.
"A lot of our success with interstate imports has come from providing them a good environment. They improve when happy."
The 1955 WA Pacing Cup winner Frosty Nelson, who triumphed in 50 races, is also in line for Hall of Fame induction.
Former top reinsman Lyle Lindau is a nominee on the strength of his Fremantle Cup-winning hat-trick with Roscott, Dollars Double and Wee Cent in the 1970s.
Rob Bovell, who was Gloucester Park's chief executive for 23 years until retirement in 2012, is another induction prospect.
He oversaw three Inter Dominion Championships.
