Spring racedaypromisessomeparty
HOORAH. The bugles have sounded, the gates are open and we are in the middle of Spring Racing Carnival— the third and final day next Saturday, October 6.
I love going to the races and will happily nag (excuse the pun) anyone and everyone to go along. There is something wonderful about the old school tradition of racing, the buzz in the air and genuine excitement of seeing the horses come in that makes it so much fun. I also love that even if you go by yourself, you’re almost guaranteed to run into someone you know.
But there is more to racing than the fluffy stuff. Did you know Hawke’s Bay Racing holds an average of 14 race meets per year, attracts about 10,000 visitors and generates millions of dollars for the Hawke’s Bay economy?
Of course, like most local businesses they also rely heavily on local support which is why it’s so important we get along and make the most of race days.
And there really is no better day to give racing a whirl than next Saturday’s Spring Classic Race Day. Gates open at 11am with the first race at 12.15pm.
There is big purse money up for grabs with the winner of the NZ Bloodstock Insurance Spring Classic race taking home $300,000. The DHL Hawke’s Bay Guineas winner will bank $85,000 and another $70,000 goes to the winner of the Trade Racks stakes.
The horse field is yet to be announced but big names expected include: She’z Sinsational, Green Supreme and He’s Remarkable. I’m hoping Mufhasa will be in the line-up too because watching him stomp home in last week’s Windsor Plate race was nothing short of spectacular. I’m not a huge gambler, but I do like a flutter and my tip is to put some pennies on local trainer John Bary’s horses. He always has a stable of noble steeds and I’m yet to be disappointed. (It’s also proved more fruitful than my previous betting strategy which was based purely on horse names and colours).
If you are a little more of a racing purist, then get yourself entered into the Punter of the Year competition in the Cheval Room. With more than $45,000 in prize money, it’s hard to say no.
But enough of all of this serious stuff, let’s not forget the other really important things on offer during race day, starting with Fashion in the Field. Sponsored by Hunt and Seek, the categories are classic women’s and men’s racewear, headwear and avant garde. There are some great prizes if you fancy walking the catwalk. Get an entry form from Hunt and Seek in Havelock North or register online. If you shy away from the spotlight but still like to dress up, there are plenty of packaged options to make the most of the day (and your dress). The Wine Country Marquee is the big ticket item with $225 per person getting you entry, a threecourse lunch from Orton Catering, complimentary drinks throughout the day, private tote, racebooks and a prime spot in the sun to watch the action.
Or you could book yourself into the new Stella Artois garden party tent, directly in front of the finishing post. Tickets are $75 each and include your first drink, festival style food and live music. Other options include booking your own marquee in the marquee village or keeping it simple with a general admission ticket for $20. This will get you close to all the trackside action, bar and catering and a DJ. Families can have a fun day out and enjoy alcohol free areas with a food court, playground, bouncy castle, games and face-painting.
As you can see there really is something for everyone, so round up your friends and family and organise a super day out. More info at www.hawkesbayracing.co.nz