Community
24 October, 2024
Off to the races
PREPARATIONS are underway for a great day of country racing when the Bet365 Mortlake Cup returns next month.
Mortlake Racing Club president Bruce Redpath said he was anticipating a big event when the cup returns on Saturday, November 2 with at least seven races tipped to bring in some big-name trainers and horses.
“We’re looking forward to it,” he said.
“We imagine the support will be good because there aren’t too many community events in town these days.
“There should be a fair bit of support locally, and there’s talk of it so we’re expecting support from surrounding areas too.”
Mr Redpath said the track was in fine condition, which would lend itself to enhancing the racing action.
“Everything is ready to go so we’ve set our sights on some cosmetic jobs and just generally getting everything nicely tidied up,” he said.
“Then, we’ll be off and racing.
“We’re putting water on the track when we’re not getting much rain, so the track is going to be a good, firm track.
“Everybody who has come out to have a look seems to really like it, so we’re expecting the trainers, owners and jockeys to be very happy.”
A number of ticketing options and packages will be available, including spring fling marquees starting at $160, straight umbrella packages from $270 and the popular rails marquee packages from $450 getting racegoers right up close with the action.
There will also be plenty of entertainment for the kids including face painting and live music.
“There’s still packages available,” Mr Redpath said.
“The marquees are really good value and the umbrella packages are always popular.
“There is a full range of catering options including drinks, sandwich and wrap boxes, grazing platters and pastries.
“Our undercover area is outstanding, with the betting ring looking outstanding with some new televisions.
“It’s all ready to go.”
Mortlake Racing Club endured a challenging period with a number of COVID-19 pandemic related cancellations before being forced to cancel again in 2022 due to extreme weather.
But the cup returned for crowds to enjoy for the first-time last year in what was a well-attended event.
Mr Redpath said he envisioned this year being even bigger.
“It was excellent to be back,” he said.
“Everyone was really pleased with a lot of good comments - our sponsors stuck to us, so we’re anticipating a great day.”
Mr Redpath said a point of pride was how quickly things packed up when the racing action comes to an end.
While it is tempting to host live music and catering well in to the night, the club aims to encourage those who have travelled for the races to leave the track and head into Mortlake for their evening festivities.
“We want to support the pubs and Mortlake businesses in general,” he said.
“A lot of them sponsor us, so that’s how we support them.”
For more information or to purchase packages visit https://country.racing.com/mortlake.