Races back with a bang after five year hiatus

MORE than 2000 people flocked to the Wangaratta Turf Club to enjoy the Ovens Ford Melbourne Cup Day Races on Tuesday trackside after a five year hiatus. For the first time after COVID, crowds of punters, race enthusiasts and ladies dressed to impress filled the racecourse, cheering on their winning horse with a beautiful 27 degree day setting the scene. Local race enthusiast Carl Stibilj said it was great to be back at the club a Melbourne Cup meeting with the community after having five years off. “Locals having the opportunity to come out, support everyone who is involved and have a great day is what it's all about," he said. "Hopefully we can all pick a winner." Races kicked off just after midday, with the first of a six-race card at the local track set for a 12.12pm start, with the final race from 4pm. Wangaratta Turf Club chief executive officer Sean Barrett said is was pleasing to see a big crowd at the Wangaratta Turf Club enjoying themselves. "The community's response has been satisfying this year after a bit of a relaunch for this event after five years since the last one," he said. "We want to put these events on for the local community and showcase a day for people to catch up and have a great time. "We sold out in most areas and we had a little capacity in the marquees and Party on the Hill but we're really happy with the crowd and it's been encouraging. "Our extra venues like Old Faithful's marquee has been an excellent addition for us, they've done a great job getting a crew together, it adds to the race day experience." With a local winner in the first race, Mr Barrett said it's great to see locals doing well. "Our locals have a fantastic strike rate here at their home track and its good to see them doing well," he said. Ladies and gentlemen dressed to impress for Fashions on the Field in the afternoon, with fashionistas vying for thousands of dollars in prizes supported by local businesses. Judge from Sign Effects, Kat Stewart, said the event had been the perfect opportunity to make a bold fashion statement. “We love the county races vibe but personally I’m a big fan of going big, bright, and colourful to stand out for Melbourne Cup Day," she said. “Melbourne Cup Day is when you can go all out, get away with some bold statements and fashions risks, it’s all acceptable and nothing is a no."

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