Big crowd tipped for race day
The Bill Dawson Memorial Race Day is expected to attract record numbers this weekend as centenary celebrations continue at the Gordonvale Turf Club.
THE Bill Dawson Memorial Race Day is tipped to attract record numbers this weekend as centenary celebrations continue at the Gordonvale Turf Club.
A highlight of the Far North racing calendar, tomorrow’s meet will feature five races as well as Fashions on the Field and children’s activities.
Club president Cameron Riches said functions had been sold out for weeks.
“We’re expecting a bumper crowd this year,” he said.
“It’s the talk of the town and we’ve got people travelling interstate for the event.”
Mr Riches said 17 nominations were received for the $15,000 Gordonvale Cup – the most in recent memory – but only 10 horses would line up at the starting gate, with the first race at 1.30pm.
The meet will be extra special for FOTF co-ordinator Stacie Galeano, whose late grandad Bill Dawson will be honoured on the day.
“He was a local bookie and always involved in the Gordonvale Turf Club,” she said.
FOTF features seven categories: under 12 years boys and girls, fashionable filly (25 and under), open ladies (over 25), gold class (over 60), best dressed man and couple.
“I think we’re only one of the only meets who do kids FOTF,” she said. “It’s great they can be involved as well and they enjoy it.
“While there are sashes for the winners and runners-up, they all get a bag of lollies.”
Ms Galeano’s fashion tips were to stick to spring racing trends of bright, bold colours and florals.
“Focus on attention to detail and dress for your personality, you need to be comfortable in what you’re wearing,” she said.
Gates open at 11am tomorrow and general admission costs $10 or $5 for pensioners.