IDEAL weather conditions and above-average rainfall in the past few weeks will ensure plenty of on and off-track action at Kerang’s Alexandra Park on Tuesday.
The Kerang Turf Club will spend today and the weekend preparing for its biggest meet – the Boxing Day races.
A large crowd is anticipated to attend the event, taking advantage of the public holiday, the Christmas period and a maximum temperature in the low to mid-30s.
“Tuesday’s rain has probably softened the track a little bit, but we tend to water once a week leading into the meet,” club president, Scott Strachan said.
“The rain we received at the start of December meant we had to push our watering out a bit.”
Six races will occur during the afternoon, starting with the 1800-metre Rodwells BM58 Handicap at 1.35pm.
The highlight will be the 1100-metre Autopro Kerang Summer Sprint BM70 Handicap, with the seven-horse field set to race at 4.20pm.
Gwenda Johnstone six-year-old gelding, Definia – who has placed third in his past two races – and Nathan Hobson’s four-year-old gelding, Reward with Return, who has won or placed in three of his past five races since late October, will be the two horses to beat.
Kerang-based trainer, Jarrod Robinson’s four-year-old gelding, King Joey will go up against Gunbower trainer, John Pearson’s five-year-old gelding, King’s Hand in the 1400-metre Walkers IGA Kerang Maiden Plate, with Daryl McNeil’s five-year-old gelding, Mister Smooth, competing in the 1100-metre NPD Natural Gypsum Maiden Plate.
“We’ve had a good number of nominations again, with a good cross-section of locally-trained horses and those from across the region,” Strachan said.
“There is not a lot of racing in the area around this time of year. The closest meets would be in the western district or at Wodonga.”
Gates will open at 11.30am, with plenty on offer off-track for the entire family.
One of the biggest drawcards will be the Fashions on the Field competition, occurring following the running of the Walkers IGA Kerang Maiden Plate at 2.15pm.
“Fashions on the Field organisers have streamlined the competition, putting a bigger emphasis on the Easter Saturday meet,” Strachan said.
“The categories – Lady of the Day, Gent of the Day and the Modern Teenager – will cater for the hot weather.
“We have been well supported by our sponsors for this competition.”
Other attractions include free children’s activities and giveaways from Kelly Sports, music performances and the Kerang Technical High School Chaplaincy Committee catering for main meals in the dining room.
“I encourage anyone who has the time to come along and enjoy a great day of racing and friendship,” Strachan said.
