One of racing’s most popular administrators John Kanga, the chairman of the Melbourne Racing Club, has quit.
Kanga, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the sport, confirmed his resignation on Friday.
Betsy has been told there was an emergency phone hook-up on Friday around lunchtime and board members were told Kanga was resigning. The meeting was relatively short and Cameron Fisher was elected the new chairman.
Kanga has a runner in the Group 1 Toorak Handicap on Saturday at Caulfield with his close friend, Collingwood coach Craig McRae.
Kanga did not attend the Caulfield Carnival launch on Thursday night, but appeared in media interviews on Wednesday. By Friday he had quit.
His resignation has shocked the industry – including his supporters – who allege they had no idea he would be leaving the club.
Kanga was essentially the executive chairman of the club, sharply across the runnings of everyday business, including dealing direct with members.
In a statement, Kanga blamed a number of ‘public attacks’ for his decision to stand down.
”In recent weeks there has been a series of public attacks directed at me personally. While I completely reject the nature and accuracy of those attacks, I do not want them to distract from the Club, its members, or the excitement of the Caulfield Cup Carnival,” the statement said.
”My decision to step aside is about putting the interests of the Club and the broader racing industry ahead of my own. The MRC is bigger than any one individual, and I want to ensure the focus remains where it belongs – on racing, our members, staff, and delivering a world-class Spring Carnival.”
”It has been a privilege to lead the Melbourne Racing Club and to work alongside so many dedicated people who care deeply about racing.”
”We successfully secured the future of Sandown Racecourse, ensuring it remains a vital part of Victorian racing; we restored the Caulfield mounting yard to its rightful place at the heart of the course; and we saved more than $250 million by halting an unnecessary proposed grandstand redevelopment and delivering a more practical, member-focused plan for Caulfield’s future.”
”Under my leadership, the Club has also strengthened its financial position – moving decisively to reduce debt and move forward with renewed commercial confidence.”
”The Club is in a strong position for the future, with outstanding leadership and a talented team across all levels. I wish the Committee, our members, and our staff every success in the years ahead.”
Racing Victoria said they had not been briefed on the reasons behind Kanga’s resignation.
”We note Mr Kanga’s decision to resign as MRC Chairman and the Committee’s subsequent decision to appoint Cameron Fisher as his replacement,” a spokesman said.
”We have not been briefed by Mr Kanga on his reasons but note his comments within the MRC’s statement.”
“This development won’t have an impact on the delivery of the Caulfield Cup Carnival. The MRC will put on three exceptional days of racing and entertainment over the next week.”
The state government, on behalf of Racing Minister Anthony Carbines, declined to answer a number of Betsy’s questions regarding Mr Kanga. The duo were photographed together last week.
”The reasons behind Mr Kanga’s resignation are a matter for him,” a spokesperson said.
Acting MRC CEO Tanya Fullarton said: ”John’s decision to step aside reflects his deep respect for the Club and its members. We thank him for his service and wish him all the very best for the future.”
