Stawell - What were you thinking!

[Messenger]

Good on the caller for making his feelings clear regarding the marquee in the centre of the track that obliterates even his high position view for 10 seconds of every lap

Rumour is that Stawell racing days will be reduced from 12 to 6 - maybe they deserve it on this ridiculous effort OR maybe they are preparing to transition into another industry

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fi...24#SWC06062409

[Messenger]

I should have realized it was Dan but I wasn't listening through my loop (which I need for clarity)
For TV viewers they avoid the marquee by switching to the back straight camera but many callers do not like calling off the monitor
The marquee would obliterate anybody on course's view for quite some time unless they are standing to the west of the stand/bistro - at least Dan's elevated position lining up with the front of the marquee would help reduce his 'blind' time. From the usual undercover viewing area for patrons, the whole side of the enormous marquee is going to obliterate your view for some considerable time around the top bend.
I am glad I did not go (too many 'trots' races for me)

[Messenger]

ps You have to worry this is a permanent thing as the slab for this has been a long time build

[Messenger]

I cannot help but wonder whether it isn't a OH&S issue, in that it is potentially a considerable obstacle for the Clerks of the Course being able to get to an incident

[Messenger]

Stawell Cup day today and the monstrosity is still there
It is the most ridiculous obstruction I have ever seen on a racecourse and the horses disappear out of sight for 6 seconds
There was a good crowd there but the marquee was not in use. Summer Sunday twilights could be a programming goer
I will post a pic of it in a minute

It was a shame (poor planning?) that there was no TAB on course so the lone bookie did fair trade for those not on their phones
Normally no betting windows open would not be a biggie as there is an actual TAB at the entrance of the club BUT it is closed at present as there are major renovations being undertaken

Both Cups were excellent races
Michael Bellman's drive in the trot - clearing out by 50m+ is a MUST WATCH
I cannot get the Pacers cup replay to play but once again Michael Stanley proved he is not a smart driver
The effort of the leader to hang on for 2nd was a great run by a long shot

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fi...24#SWC01122403

[Messenger]

Stawell marquee - a permanent fixture on the infield

[gutwagon]

The tent was said to be weather proof but got flooded and damaged in recent storms ! You can't really blame the club , they have lost half of the meetings and need some form of revenue. Most of the pokie money goes to the government. I bet the new tab will just have those betting self serve machines in it !
I visit this club more than any other and are surprised at the lack of improvement to the horse and track facilities. Most of the pokie money seems to be spent on the pokie venue and that new front entrance is crazy !