Queensland racing boss Bob Bentley has been elected the new chairman of the Australian Racing Board (ARB).Bentley was appointed to the role on Friday, the same day relations between Australia and Hong Kong deteriorated over the decision by Racing NSW to grant a licence to jockey Chris Munce.Munce, who spent 20 months in jail for his part in a tips for bets scandal, was relicensed by Racing NSW despite a ruling by the Hong Kong Jockey Club he not be allowed to ride until September next year.Hong
Queensland racing boss Bob Bentley has been elected the new chairman of the Australian Racing Board (ARB).
Bentley was appointed to the role on Friday, the same day relations between Australia and Hong Kong deteriorated over the decision by Racing NSW to grant a licence to jockey Chris Munce.
Munce, who spent 20 months in jail for his part in a tips for bets scandal, was relicensed by Racing NSW despite a ruling by the Hong Kong Jockey Club he not be allowed to ride until September next year.
Hong Kong officials cited Article 10 of the international agreement on reciprocity of penalties of which the ARB is a signatory.
Bentley said he was looking forward to the challenge.
"I am extremely proud to take on this role," Bentley said.
"Unquestionably these are challenging times for the industry, but the fundamentals are strong and if Australian racing can become truly national in every sense then we can succeed.
"I firmly believe that tomorrow belongs to those who are willing to roll up their sleeves and be honest in tackling our problems. One thing that is absolutely essential is that we work nationally across the board.
"That includes calendar dates, programming, rules, handicapping, stewards and every other aspect of Australian racing."