Scoring Up

August 8-2026

National Ratings Under the Spotlight

The National Ratings system will be on the agenda when Harness Racing Australia executives meet later this month.

One of the key concerns is the rating being allocated to New Zealand horses entering Australia, with the current system potentially discouraging Australian owners and trainers from purchasing horses from across the Tasman.

New Zealand imports have traditionally been an important part of Australian harness racing, providing owners with opportunities to purchase proven and emerging horses.

Hopefully, this month’s discussions can address the concerns and ensure the ratings system doesn’t become a barrier to the flow of horses between New Zealand and Australia.

Yearling Sale Date Clash

Sad to see two major standardbred yearling sales going head-to-head in 2027.

The Nutrien Equine Melbourne Yearling Sale is scheduled for the same February weekend as the New Zealand Bloodstock Auckland National Standardbred Yearling Sale.

For Australian buyers who regularly support both sales, it creates an unnecessary dilemma.

You simply can’t be in Melbourne and Auckland at the same time.

Surely the industry can do better when coordinating dates for two important sales on the Australasian calendar.

WASBA Stallion Raffle Returns

Here’s a terrific opportunity for breeders.

The West Australian Standardbred Breeders Association (WASBA) is holding its annual stallion raffle, with the winner getting their choice of a service to Always B Miki, Bettor’s Wish or Downbytheseaside.

The Always B Miki service is particularly attractive, with his 2026 book already full and closed.

Tickets are $100 each, with only 300 available.

Not bad odds — $100 could secure your mare a date with one of the country’s leading stallions.