The world’s richest pacing race will come home to Perth next year when it plays host to the Inter Dominion harness racing competition from 2015-16 to 2017-18.

The prestigious international competition, which has rotated between all the States of Australia and both islands of New Zealand, will see elite harness horses compete in an event that requires both speed and endurance.

Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron said $1.8million in total stakes would be on offer for the 2015-16 series with a $1.3million purse awarded in the Grand Final, making Perth’s Inter Dominion the richest pacing race in the world.

“I congratulate Racing and Wagering Western Australia and Gloucester Park Harness Racing for their initiative to bid for the Inter Dominions,” Mr Waldron said.

“This is an incredibly exciting event for WA, and a fantastic opportunity to relaunch, re-energise and revitalise harness racing in this State.

“Not only will the eyes of the harness racing world be on Perth but the event will attract enthusiasts from around the globe, resulting in a huge boost for local tourism and hospitality businesses.

“WA has a proud history in the Inter Dominion Championships, hosting the very first series at Gloucester Park in 1936 and producing such fantastic winners as Binshaw, San Simeon, Preux Chevalier, Village Kid and of course the three-time champion, I’m Themightyquinn.

“The Government is also very aware of the significant contribution harness racing makes to the WA economy, and the conduct of such a prestigious event such as the Inter Dominion will only help to strengthen the harness racing code in this State.”