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Raedler bows out from Albion Park

11 February 2020

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Albion Park CEO Damian Raedler has announced his retirement from harness racing administration for a second and final time.

Earlier today, Raedler, who enjoyed two stints at the helm of APHRC, confirmed his departure after a decorated career which included Harness Racing Australia’s ‘Distinguished National Service Award’ in 2008 for his contribution to the code.

“I’ve had a good innings of nearly 40 years in the business. You know when it’s time,” Raedler said.

Having commenced as the club’s marketing manager in 1983, Raedler assumed the general manager’s role shortly after and held the position for the next two decades.

During this time, Raedler oversaw the running of the 1986, 1993 and 2001 Inter Dominions at Albion Park.

“I might be biased but some of the best Inter Dominion carnivals were in Queensland,” he said.

“I arrived at a great time as it was the opening of the new 1000 metre track and grandstand. Albion Park was dubbed the ‘speed pacing capital of Australia’.

“These were terrific times. Big crowds and exciting racing.”

In 2004, Raedler returned home to serve as the CEO of Harness Racing New South Wales.

It would be a short-live stint, however, with Raedler lured back across the border where his expertise was snapped up by the various iterations of Racing Queensland over the next decade before enjoying a second stint at the helm of Albion Park.

“His word was his bond,” APHRC Chairman David Fowler said.

“His knowledge of the complex was second to none. Not only was he a great administrator but a great friend.”

Having formed part on the management team of the World Trotting Conference and several World Driving Championships, Raedler was also the founding secretary of the Australian Pacing Gold series in 1990/91.

RQ CEO Brendan Parnell was among those who paid tribute to Raedler.

“Damian has provided great service and dedication to harness racing over the years,” Parnell said.

 “He thoroughly deserves to be able to enjoy the next chapter of his life and we wish him well in retirement.”