Decision to race defended after jockeys injured

Racing safety inspectors are standing by the decision to race at Rangiora in North Canterbury yesterday.

Two jockeys were seriously injured after their horses fell in the first race of the day.

Judy Lawson and Tracey Newton were rushed to hospital, suffering head injuries.

South Island stipendiary steward Stewart Ching says there was no racing on Sunday because the track was too greasy, but he says the track gave a dead reading yesterday, so it was thought to be safe.

He walked over it with the course manager and says it was evident looking at where a horse had galloped that it appeared to be getting grip.

The safety of the track will be investigated.

- NEWSTALK ZB