Murray Bridge & Mt Gambier Cups to Grp 3 Status
Greyhound Racing SA (GRSA) is pleased to announce that the Murray Bridge and Mount Gambier Cups have been elevated to Group 3 status.
The previously listed races will now offer $25,000 to the winner. Each of the three country clubs will now hold Group status for their premier events.
These changes will come into effect in time for the 2022 running of each Country Cup, with the Murray Bridge Cup held on Sunday, March 20, and the Mount Gambier Cup on Sunday, April 10.
"It is a great privilege to have each of our Country Cups achieve Group 3 status," GRSA Chair Grantley Stevens said.
"It’s a terrific selling point for each of the clubs, which showcase excellent racing in each of those series with quality local and interstate greyhounds competing."
Two bonuses will also continue for the two races, including a $5,000 bonus if the same greyhound can win both the Murray Bridge Cup and Mount Gambier Cup, and a $5,000 trainer bonus if the same trainer can win both Cups. Both club presidents were highly appreciative that each of their clubs would now be able to hold Group races.
Mount Gambier Club president Noel Perry said it was wonderful news to see the club now hosting a Group race.
"The Mount Gambier Cup is already well-regarded and this change will further elevate the status of the Cup, Mr Perry said. "
It is hoped that additional interstate trainers are attracted to compete, therefore lifting the standard of racing.
Murray Bridge Club manager Neville Loechel appreciated the elevation, which was "excellent for the Murray Bridge Cup".
"The quality of racing we see at the Cup each year is very high, so for the Cup to now be Group 3 listed is great news, Mr Loechel said.
South Australia now hosts nine group races across the clubs each year.