Scoring Up

Australian Pacing Gold (APG) has announced it will discontinue its traditional on-site yearling sales following the 2026 sales season, marking the end of an era that has shaped the Australian harness racing industry for more than 35 years.

The decision, which takes effect from the 2027 sales season, represents one of the most significant changes to the standardbred sales landscape in decades. However, APG Chairman Robert Marshall believes the move will ultimately create greater opportunities for both vendors and buyers.

Marshall said the decision had been made only after careful consideration by the Board, with the long-term sustainability of the industry at the forefront.

“Online sales present significant opportunities for the Australian standardbred industry,” Marshall said.

“They provide a lower barrier to entry for both vendors and buyers, reduce many of the costs associated with traditional sale formats and offer the potential to reach a far broader audience across Australia and internationally.”

APG to end on-site yearling sales as focus shifts to online marketplace

Australian Pacing Gold (APG) has announced it will discontinue its traditional on-site yearling sales following the 2026 sales season, marking the end of an era that has shaped the Australian harness racing industry for more than 35 years.

The decision, which takes effect from the 2027 sales season, represents one of the most significant changes to the standardbred sales landscape in decades. However, APG Chairman Robert Marshall believes the move will ultimately create greater opportunities for both vendors and buyers.

Marshall said the decision had been made only after careful consideration by the Board, with the long-term sustainability of the industry at the forefront.

“Online sales present significant opportunities for the Australian standardbred industry,” Marshall said.

“They provide a lower barrier to entry for both vendors and buyers, reduce many of the costs associated with traditional sale formats and offer the potential to reach a far broader audience across Australia and internationally.”

For vendors, the shift promises lower selling costs and the ability to market horses to prospective purchasers without the expense of transporting yearlings to major sale venues. Lower fees and commissions are also expected to improve commercial returns for breeders of all sizes.

Buyers are also likely to benefit from increased convenience, with the ability to inspect and bid on yearlings from anywhere in the country while gaining access to a wider pool of horses.

Marshall said the Board believed the industry was ready to embrace a modern sales model.

“The time is now right for APG to reshape its sales operations and focus on areas that can provide strong, practical and sustainable benefits for the industry into the future,” he said.

The decision follows rising operating costs associated with staging live sales. Marshall revealed APG spent approximately $1.3 million this year administering its yearling sales, race series and day-to-day operations.

“At a time when many areas of the industry are facing financial pressures, the Board believes APG’s resources can be better directed towards initiatives that deliver greater value and more tangible benefits for participants,” he said.

Despite stepping away from physical sales, APG has stressed it remains committed to the Australian harness racing industry. The company’s highly successful APG Race Series will continue for eligible horses, while significant investment will be directed towards expanding its online sales platform.

The transition will begin with this year’s Winter Mix Sale, where APG will introduce its new online platform ahead of a broader digital expansion in 2027.

Marshall pointed to the growing acceptance of online sales internationally, noting the success of New Zealand Bloodstock’s online weanling sales as evidence that breeders and buyers are becoming increasingly comfortable with digital auction formats.

Importantly for those who still prefer the traditional sale ring environment, Marshall said discussions with Mark Barton from Nutrien had provided confidence that on-site yearling sales would continue to be available across Australia.

“We acknowledge the important role that the on-site sales sector will continue to play within the industry,” Marshall said.

“Discussions with Mark Barton from Nutrien give us confidence that the on-site marketplace will be well catered for in all jurisdictions.”

Marshall also paid tribute to those who have supported APG since its inception.

“The Board would like to sincerely thank the many breeders, vendors, purchasers, sponsors and participants who have supported APG throughout its 35-year history,” he said.

“Your loyalty and commitment have played an integral role in the organisation’s success and contribution to a vibrant harness racing industry.”

While the decision signals the end of APG’s famous sale-ring auctions, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter aimed at making the buying and selling of standardbreds more accessible, cost-effective and capable of reaching a broader domestic and international audience.