STAKES for the minor race programme in KwaZulu-Natal will increase by an average of 11% as from March 1, 2013. 

Making the announcement, Gold Circle Racing and Marketing Executive, Graeme Hawkins, said: “It is Gold Circle’s vision that the increase in stakes for minor races heralds an era of growth for owners and trainers in KwaZulu-Natal. I have every confidence that horse racing in this province will go from strength to strength.” 

Graeme Hawkins.

The highest percentage increase will be for Pinnacle Plate races that will rise by 21% to R115 000. 

With few exceptions the stakes for all races will increase by between 10 and 11 % with the stakes for Maiden races increasing to R66 000 and Maiden Juvenile races to R72 000. 

Races at the top end of the handicap scale will all be worth R100 000 or more.