Country racing at its best is on offer at the Coonabarabran and Baradine Cup race meeting, organisers say.
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The event will be held on Monday, October 23, with a full card of activities both on the day and in the lead-up.
“We are really excited to be able to show case our great track, fantastic atmosphere and community spirit, which has made Coonabarabran races popular with locals and visitors,” jockey club president Stewart Rodgers said.
On Sunday, October 22, at 3pm, the jockey club will host a welcome barbecue for race visitors at the track.
Coona Cup Calcutta will be that night at the Coonabarabran Bowling Club, with race caller Col Hodges getting the crowd in the spirit with a phantom race.
The day of the cup, organisers recommend racegoers head to the scenic clock tower where they will be welcomed with a free breakfast put on by the local chamber of commerce.
Then it’s off to the races, with eight on the card and the gates opening at 11am.
The local Rotary will be offering steak sandwiches, the Catholic Ladies will have soft drinks and chips, and the Girl Guides will play host at the tearooms with sandwiches, cakes, slices and tea.
There will be a full bar operating and the popular champagne marquee will be in full swing thanks to the school P&F.
The free light luncheon at noon will highlight the new kitchen facilities.
For the young racegoer there will be a jumping castle plus the ability to get up close and personal with the horses, jockeys and track.
There will be a photo marquee, which will allow family and friends to pop in and get their photo taken for a gold-coin donation.
Spring into fashion
“We are looking forward to spring fashion with great styles and colours on show, with the high standards set from previous winners in the fashion awards,” publicity officer Sarah Baglee said.
“There is something to suit all ages from Turf Tots for the under 10 years; Racy Lady and Racy Lad for 16-30 years; Lady of Fashion and Gent of Style for the over-30 years bracket; and Silver Selection Lady and Gent for the more elegant and mature racegoer.”
Ms Baglee said the Fashions on the Field judges from Newcastle and Dubbo were well-known in the fashion stakes.
“We are trying to promote the fact that racing is a family and community day, that it’s a way of seeing a beautiful animal at its best capability, and also being surrounded by family and friends and having a good time,” she said.