Alabar throws support behind retirement program

Momentum has built rapidly since the unveiling of the Alabar HERO Series, an unprecedented showing opportunity for retired standardbreds.

The series will run in conjunction with Victorian Agricultural Shows and culminate in a $1000 final at Bendigo in January, 2017.

Standardbred breeding powerhouse Alabar Bloodstock has secured naming rights to the prestigious series, and the Standardbred Pleasure and Performance Horse Association of Victoria has now come on board to support the event.

The inaugural Alabar HERO Series winner will receive a SPPHAV membership, horse registration and merchandise pack, and a gift will be presented to each qualifier on behalf of the association.

“This series is a great initiative and a wonderful chance to show the broader horse community the potential of the standardbred as a ridden horse and our committee is proud to offer its full support,” SPPHAV President Shelley Murcutt said.

One of the Victorian harness racing industry’s longest standing and most highly-regarded families has also endorsed the series with a generous cash sponsorship.

Melbourne lawyer Robert Abrahams, together with his sister Carol and brother Peter, have donated $1000 to support the initiative.

“My family has been involved in the breeding and racing of standardbreds since my uncle Harry and father Frank Abrahams founded Meadowbrook Trotting Stud in the 1940s at Woodend, and my late cousin Kevin was married to Patsy Abrahams, winner of the 1962 Garryowen Equestrienne Turnout,” Abrahams said.

“I believe that the standardbred, with its even temperament, versatility and robust constitution, is often underrated and undervalued.

“This series is a high profile opportunity to show just what the breed is capable of achieving and we are pleased to be involved.”

The Alabar HERO Series is open to all freeze branded standardbreds and will comprise qualifiers at agricultural shows throughout Victoria, leading into a $1000 final at Bendigo in January, 2017.

The eligibility criteria, and a full schedule of events, will be available on the VAS websitewww.vicagshows.com.au