Corowa soaks up a beautiful day for races

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ATTENDANCE was up at yesterday’s Corowa Melbourne Cup race meeting, believed to be a direct result of the decision not to race at Wodonga.

Corowa’s six-race event drew a large crowd, with the race club selling double the amount of private seating compared with last year.

Corowa Race Club secretary and manager Sheridan Kay said the absence of a Wodonga race meeting yesterday had “absolutely” helped boost numbers.

“We also had a broad advertising campaign, which targeted people in Shepparton,” she said.

“I think the weather has also helped — it’s such a beautiful day.”

Ms Kay said the support of employees from the race meeting’s new major sponsor, Mulwala Water Ski Club, had also increased numbers.

She said Mulwala Ski Club employees had free entry and their own private area; with many bringing their family and friends.

“We’re really proud to work with them,” Ms Kay said.

Ms Kay said the club had spent four months planning to get yesterday’s meeting “just right”, compared with only a few weeks of preparation for last year’s event.

“This has been a massive race meet for us,” Ms Kay said.

She said the community event was a chance for punters to have a laugh, bet, drink or dance among friends.

Racegoers spread out their rugs for picnics or gathered in the bar or grandstand. Some were dressed in their finest while others were taking a more relaxed approach.

There was face painting and a jumping castle for the children, and a live band played as many women kicked off their shoes and danced the afternoon away.

Ms Kay said not only were crowd numbers up but more effort had been put in by those focused on the fashion.

“Fashions on the field was just massive compared to last year,” she said.

“It’s just been fantastic — It’s buzzing and alive.”