While crowds won't feel the heat at today's Wodonga Gold Cup, jockeys and horses might.
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As a spring heat wave sweeps the North East we're expecting a maximum temperature of 35 degrees for what is historically Wodonga's biggest race day.
But only participants and horse owners will be at the track to feel it under current Victorian COVID-19 restrictions.
Racing Wodonga's general manager Steve Wright said while Racing Victoria does have strict heat protocols, he doesn't think they will need to come into play.
"As far as the racing hopefully the heat won't have an impact," he said.
"There's the opportunity to bring races forward and change the times if they need to, but we're hoping with the forecast being 35 degrees it should be okay."
Last year's event was also a hot one, hitting 34 degrees.
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There was also a record crowd, with just under 10,000 racegoers streaming through the gates.
Mr Wright admitted preparations have looked very different for the day this time around.
"We're feeling a bit flat knowing that there's not going to be any crowds here," he said.
"It's a real shame because we have some really strong fields and good horses in the races.
"It's going to be a good day, it's just a shame there's going to be no one here to really enjoy it."
While racegoers can't be there in person, they're still able to watch the action via racing channels.
Mr Wright said the club is still encouraging punters to enjoy the day by heading to other venues around town.
"We've been encouraging people to get out and support local businesses here in Wodonga," he said.
"We're hoping even though people can't be here, there's still plenty of opportunity for them to access the races and hopefully enjoy the day."
Wodonga's Elgins Hotel is anticipating to be busy, with residents expected to make the most of their TAB facilities and live outdoor music.
Venue manager Rhys Torpy is hopeful locals will support businesses such as Elgins.
"I think they definitely will, being a public holiday most people have the day off," he said.
"I think all round we're going to have a really steady day.
"We'd love to see people come and have a beer and a punt."
At the race track, owners will be permitted on site to watch their horses compete in their allocated races.
Last month Corowa was permitted 500 patrons for its meet under NSW's COVID-19 restrictions.