Owner for a day chance at cup
History will be made at The Weekly Advertiser Horsham Pacing Cup on Sunday, with all adults in attendance eligible to become an ‘owner for a day’ in a new competition run by Horsham and District Harness Racing Club.
Club president Justin Lane said the Dunn-ezy Seed Cleaning ‘Owner for a Day’ concept had been included on cup day to promote the sport of harness racing and encourage patrons to consider future involvement in the industry.
All members of the public attending the cup meeting will be eligible to enter the competition, with up to eight names drawn from the barrel in the mounting yard at 3pm.
Each person drawn becomes an official ‘owner for the day’, with his or her randomly assigned horse set to compete in an actual race later in the afternoon.
The winning ‘owners’ will enjoy all the benefits experienced by real owners who get to the track to watch their horse compete on race day.
This includes access to the dedicated owners enclosure with free drinks and finger food and the opportunity to meet their trainer, driver and horse prior to the race.
The ‘owner’ of the winning horse will pocket a cheque for $3990 – the same amount the ‘real’ owner of the horse will receive.
“There are many ways people can become involved in the harness racing industry,” Mr Lane said.
“Opportunities include becoming the owner of a standardbred as an individual, partner or member of a syndicate, through to simply getting involved with the club and volunteering on race days.
“Every sport needs grassroot participants to survive and thrive, and we think this new competition ticks all the boxes as far as getting the public involved.”
The Weekly Advertiser Horsham Pacing Cup meeting promises to be a great community event.
In addition to the action on the race track the day will feature a community sulky sprint race, live music with Darryn Wardle, a Punters Club, cup sweeps and a giant video screen.
“For the kids there’s a host of free fun activities and competitions and the opportunity for one lucky child to win an ipad,” Mr Lane said.
“We strongly encourage everyone to get their backside track side on Sunday and enjoy a great day out at the cup.
“At the same time they’ll have a chance to become an ‘owner for a day’ and maybe take home that cheque for $3990.”
Gates open at 12.30pm.