Gai says Sydney racing clubs don't need Government

GAI WATERHOUSE does not want the State Government appointing directors should Sydney racing venture down the super race club trac, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.Its report adds: Speaking at yesterday's trackwork session at Eagle Farm before Saturday's $1m Stradbroke Handicap, racing's first lady said any merger of the Australian Jockey Club and Sydney Turf Club must be left to the members of both clubs.If the government weighs in, Waterhouse said, it would no doubt turn into a "disaster

GAI WATERHOUSE does not want the State Government appointing directors should Sydney racing venture down the super race club trac, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

Its report adds: Speaking at yesterday's trackwork session at Eagle Farm before Saturday's $1m Stradbroke Handicap, racing's first lady said any merger of the Australian Jockey Club and Sydney Turf Club must be left to the members of both clubs.

If the government weighs in, Waterhouse said, it would no doubt turn into a "disaster".

"They [clubs] have got to keep their identity. Members must have a say," Waterhouse said. "We don't need the government. It is hard enough getting things done now."

Waterhouse made mention of the impending merger of the Queensland Turf Club and Brisbane Turf Club into the Brisbane Racing Club, as voted by members. "Amalgamate administrations and [you] save costs instantly," Waterhouse said. "But trainers as a whole are against government involvement - and they represent the owners."

Yesterday, Waterhouse declared Bank Robber was favoured over stablemate Royal Discretion in the Stradbroke.