Jockey club on track for big day

Horseplay: There will be plenty to entertain racegoers both on and off the track at this year’s Ballina Cup race meeting on Thursday, according to the Ballina Jockey Club.

IT’S all about food, fashion and fun – and horseracing – at the Ballina Jockey Club on Thursday for the Ballina Cup.

BJC chief executive Sarah Wills said last year’s event attracted about 4000 people.

“We’re expecting similar crowds to last year,” she said.

“It takes a lot of planning to make this event happen. As soon as we wrap up one Ballina Cup, we start getting ready for the next one.

“The biggest thing is catering – organising all of the food and refreshments.

“This year we have about 15 corporate marquees. It’s definitely becoming more popular to have a marquee, so we will be expanding that side of it for next year.”

And it is hoped the Cup will be without the drama of last year.

The race was almost cancelled due to a threatened nationwide strike by jockeys, following failed negotiations with the Australian Racing Board over controversial whip rules

Ms Wills said it was something that could not be predicted.

“We prepare for everything that we can, but that was something we definitely did not expect,” she said.

“But this year the track is in really good order.

“It’s a credit to track manager Craig King and his staff. They’ve worked hard because there has been a lot of rain lately.”

And let’s not forget the race day fashions.

This year there are three categories in Fashions on the Field : Ladies, Couples, and Best Headwear.

But the main attraction on the day will surely be the horses.

Ms Wills said it was going to be a very good day of racing.

“We have some sensational horses coming,” she said.

“The field will be extremely strong for every race, but for the Cup race in particular.”

Gates open at 10.30am. For more information call the Ballina Jockey Club on 6686 0333.