Sydney's two metropolitan horse racing clubs may merge in response to the global economic downturn, industry chiefs say.NSW Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene on Wednesday convened a meeting of the Australian Jockey Club (AJC), the Sydney Turf Club (STC) and Racing NSW to discuss the future of the state's racing industry."Discussions today centred on the merits of having the STC and the AJC operating as one racing club," Mr Greene said in a statement."It is important to ensure NSW racing is

Sydney's two metropolitan horse racing clubs may merge in response to the global economic downturn, industry chiefs say.

NSW Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene on Wednesday convened a meeting of the Australian Jockey Club (AJC), the Sydney Turf Club (STC) and Racing NSW to discuss the future of the state's racing industry.

"Discussions today centred on the merits of having the STC and the AJC operating as one racing club," Mr Greene said in a statement.

"It is important to ensure NSW racing is ready to face future challenges."

STC Chairman Bill Picken welcomed the discussions.

"In these economic times, it's only prudent to explore all avenues which benefit the industry as a whole," Mr Picken said.

AJC Chairman Ross Smyth-Kirk said the amalgamation had the potential to place the racing industry in a stronger position.

"This will once and for all determine what is the best model to maximise financial and intangible returns to the industry," he said.

Mr Greene said his department would work towards initiating an independent feasibility study into the proposed merger, with the proposal to be put before the boards of both clubs soon.

Should they lend their support to the move, terms of reference would be drafted.