They're off and racing
THE track is in peak condition, the horses are prepared, the meals and the drinks are in place, the outfits and fascinators have been picked and the bookies are ready to take bets.
Lismore Turf Club will open its doors at 11am for a crowd expected to reach up to 6000 people to celebrate the Lismore Cup.
Malcolm Marshall, the new chairman of Lismore Turf Club, was ensuring yesterday that all marquees were being set up with elegant decorations.
"It is a very special day for us; 40% of our yearly income comes from this one day," said Mr Marshall.
Fashion in the Fields awards, one of the highlights, will be announced about 2.10pm.
Secretary-manager Scott Jones confirmed that seven bars will be ready with 40 kegs of beer and 400 cartons of other drinks.
A new finishing post has been placed at the course, and will be used for the first time today.
Eager to be first to the new finishing post is Keen Street, a four-year-old mare participating in today's main race.
Part-owner Craig Kennedy explained that the mare was named by three of its co-owners 2 1/2 years ago, while having a drink at a pub in Keen St, Lismore.
HALF DAY OFF
Lismore City Council has gazetted a local public holiday from noon.
Most public services will close from noon.
Most chemists will close early; phone them to check opening times as they do not have a special roster for today.
Australia Post outlets will also close at noon today except for Lismore East, which will close at 5pm.
ON THE MENU
200 pies
200 steak sandwiches
300 sausage sandwiches
200kg of hot chips
100kg of wedges
80kg of fish pieces
150 salad plates
THE LINGO
Trifecta: A bet where you pick the first three horses past the post in order.
Boxed Trifecta: A bet where you pick the first three horses past the post in any order.
Each Way: A bet that depends on your selection running first, second or third.
Quinella: You pick the first two placegetters in any order.
Exacta: You pick the first two placegetters in the correct order.
Bolter: A horse considered to have no chance.
Good thing: A horse that should win.
Nag: A horse you bet on that didn't win.
