Equestrian


“


We have to be


careful not to get the track too quick; whilst we aim for an improving race programme, it still needs to be safe for every horse, regardless of its ability


Gallopmaster harrows are used to firm the surface in the final hours before racing and in between races


“We have to be careful not to get the track too quick; whilst we aim for an improving race programme, it still needs to be safe for every horse, regardless of its ability.”


Clerk of the Course Fergus Cameron “


“Contrary to popular belief, all‐weather surfaces need as much maintenance as turf to provide the consistent and safe going that we insist on. The surface is regularly worked to depth, levels regraded to take account of the track’s camber and the material mixed and then firmed,” Fergus explains. A range of techniques are used depending on the weather conditions. “The binder is more active in cold weather, so in winter the surface is worked down with Kongskilde spring tine harrows and then the Gallopmaster harrows are used to tighten it up,” explains Fergus. “In summer, we try to work the track a week in advance to give the pad time to re‐establish and then use the Gallopmaster to firm the surface on the raceday. Temperatures also affect how frequently we reinstate during


racing ‐ in winter, it will be once between races and, in summer, twice or three times.” If rain is due to be followed by a frost, the


Kongskilde harrows are used to open up the surface and get the water through. “The surface itself should not freeze, but any moisture in it will, so by opening it up we allow the water repellent binder to do its stuff and avoid a frozen track.” Snow conditions are challenging. A light dusting of snow is insufficient to blade off, so will be worked into the material. Not ideal if a prolonged cold spell is forecast! Deeper snow is pushed to the outside of the track where it remains until it melts, although the racing line and starts are cleared. “If temperatures are above freezing, it will thaw quickly in the surface, otherwise we have to keep mixing! Keeping the service road clear of ice is another important task ‐ support vehicles follow each race, travelling in convoy at speeds up to 35mph.” Fog can be unpredictable, and quick decisions have to be made to ensure that


The surface itself should not freeze, but any moisture in it will, so by opening it up we allow the water repellent binder to do its stuff and avoid a frozen track


A lute used for grading the cambered track ‐ on the list for replacement! 98 I PC FEBRUARY/MARCH 2018


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