OUT with the old, in with the new; punters will notice a few changes around Albury Racecourse at today’s gold cup.
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Not least of all is the new winning post, with its installation completed on Wednesday night, and a fashion and entertainment precinct that aims to bring the glamour of the marquees to masses.
With at least 16,000 people expected to converge on the racecourse today, Albury Racing Club chief executive John Miller was confident it would be another success — provided, as always, the weather stayed on side.
“Our objective isn’t really numbers, it’s making sure people enjoy themselves,” he said.
“We’ve got a team that works tirelessly to make this happen — it’s not just a racing club event, it’s really seen as an event for the city of Albury.
“The half-day holiday is the catalyst for it growing, but it wouldn’t be as big as it’s got without the community coming out to support it for as long as they have.”
While the staples that make the event are still there — the fashions on the field and the marquees — Mr Miller said a few new additions this year were aimed at improving accessibility for people.
Fashions have been moved to a new area with entertainment, bars and food in a beer garden atmosphere.
“The marquees are so strong these days that there’s a perception that if you’re not in there, it’s no fun,” Mr Miller said.
“So we’re making sure the options are, that people feel they’re in a
specialised area.”
The popular Carlton Mid-Meeting Place will also be back this year.
As far as the reason everyone is there goes, that’s definitely the horse racing.
Mr Miller said the Albury Guineas, the Cup and Flat Knacker would be the events to watch.
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