A multiple Group 1 winning trainer Price has no issue with the Everest being the first and biggest race of its kind however he believes money could be better spent in other areas rather than on pop up races like the All Star Mile, Golden Eagle and most recently the $2m Invitational.
“I get the Everest, that’s fine. It was a totally new concept,” Price said.
“But I think too many pop-up races makes you wonder if it’s the best use of money.
“The majority of the participants in the game, including owners, need to get a better return on investment down the lower end of the game.
“I know we are here to reward excellence but I just wonder about these pop-up races, with all this money, that it creates an uneven distribution of the riches.
“What is better for the game in general?
“Is it these ego-driven races or is it the opportunity for better distribution to a wider proportion of the industry which has no glamour aspect to it, but it does make the buoyancy of the industry better and a bit more viable.
“It would grow the ownership pie better if they had a better return on investment rather than a large amount of money in small areas.”
In recent years there has been a back and forth between NSW and Victoria with new races emerging almost yearly. However both governing bodies can point to increased investment through the lower levels with race days like the Hunter and The Gong driving greater revenue locally.
“You never know what (Racing NSW CEO) Peter V’landys is going to appear with or what Victoria is going to appear with,” Price said.
“But if there’s money available, they need to be careful how it’s spent.
“What role do Racing Australia play?
“I am hoping that with the appointment of John Messara (as Racing Australia chairman) they may have better collaboration between the states rather than the conflict they have at the moment.”