Scoring Up

July 29-2026

Regional prizemoney receives a major lift
Harness Racing New South Wales has reinforced its support for country racing, announcing a prizemoney increase for the 2026/27 Carnival of Cups series. Each of the five feature races at Wagga (November 6), Bathurst (December 11), Newcastle (January 8), Penrith (January 30) and Albury (February 12) will now be worth $100,000, providing a significant incentive for the nation’s leading pacers to contest the series.

Project Stamina report released
The long-awaited Project Stamina review has finally been released in New Zealand. Among its recommendations is the proposed closure of harness racing at Manawatu, Wyndham, Gore, Hawera and Oamaru, a move certain to spark widespread debate across the industry.

Radiant slot holders unveiled
The 20 slot holders for South Australia’s inaugural The Radiant have been announced, adding further momentum to the state’s first-ever slot race. The $100,000 Final will be staged at Port Pirie on October 10, with slot holders ranging from local businesses and a football club to South Australian trainers, Sports Entertainment Network and Australia’s largest harness racing owner, underlining the industry’s strong support for the innovative concept.

 Always B Miki books full
Demand for champion sire Always B Miki remains as strong as ever, with Alabar confirming the stallion is fully booked for the upcoming breeding season. Returning after a year away from stud duties, his 2026 service fee has also risen to $11,000 (GST inclusive), reflecting his ongoing popularity with breeders.

Word drifting out of Cobbitty this week is the addition of Mirage Hanover to the stallion barn for the upcoming season. The 3YO Breeders Crown champ, a son of Bettors Delight from the ever‑reliable Mayhem Seelster (who hasn’t missed with a foal yet), brings a serious maternal page too — his line rolls back to Tupelo Rose, the Kiwi queen who swept the 2, 3 and 4YO filly titles on both sides of the Tasman. Mirage Hanover will stand at $5,000 inc GST.