GRV Chairman Peter Caillard and new CEO Adam Wallish recently discussed the future of greyhound racing in Victoria in an interview with RSN’s Shane Anderson
GRV has undergone significant change over the past couple of months as the fastest growing racing code in Australia ushers in a new era of professionalism, integrity and growth. Speaking to RSN – Racing & Sport’s Shane Anderson, on the program ‘Racing Ahead’ Peter Caillard and Adam Wallish presented a united front displaying a passionate vision for the future of greyhound racing in the state.
The sport already has a 20.6 per cent market share in regards to wagering and contributes 25 per cent of bets placed in the state; and with a new and fresh approach, can look to further prosperity under the new regime. “There’s no doubt things could have been done better in certain areas, it’s great to have the stellar performance greyhounds have had; but you can’t do it at the cost of corporate governance. “For us it (the Ombudsman’s Report) was a bit of a wakeup call, it identified areas we could improve, and I think we have already done that. We’ve accepted all the recommendations in the report and continue to ensure integrity and compliance are paramount in our organisation. “What we need at the moment is the right mix of experience and rejuvenation and we are really lucky to have Adam (Wallish) on board as the new CEO; his father is very well known to the industry and he has a real passion for, and knowledge of the sport,” GRV Chairman Peter Caillard said.
Adam Wallish was introduced as the new CEO on July 16, 2012 and has extensive knowledge of greyhound racing and the racing marketplace in general. Not only is his knowledge of racing extensive, he has significant experience in sporting administration. When asked by Shane Anderson on RSN about why he chose to come back into greyhound racing, Wallish commented that greyhounds have long been a passion of his and that greyhound racing is in his blood. “I’ve always been interested in greyhound racing; since I was 6-7 years old when I used to go to coursing meetings, it’s just in my blood. “I really had a strong passion to be involved again; when this opportunity came up I was very excited about the possibility of getting the job,” GRV CEO Adam Wallish said. Returns to industry participants was one of the topics covered in the dual interview and although there have been significant changes in the organisation; Wallish was firm in the belief that prize money would continue to increase. “The participants have enjoyed significant prize money increases over a long period of time. “It’s a fantastic position for us to be in; we clearly lead all states when it comes to prize money. “I’d like to say with the initiatives we are coming up with over the next 12 months that the prize money will continue to increase,” he said. GRV are now moving ahead with further initiatives that will enhance all aspects of the sport, as it continues to build upon the strength engrained over the past 12 years, making Victoria the best state to train, own and race greyhounds.
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