Country NSW racing is different from other states because it covers widely spread out area and it consists the most number of country race clubs in Australia. Racing helps these towns thrive economically and gives each their own character and identity. The highlights of country racing are the cup carnivals and the TAB Saddle-Up Sundays.
Racing NSW has come up with the initiative of TAB Saddle-Up Sundays. It features one Sunday meeting a month which began from October 2011 at a different country race track each time. The aim is to highlight the best country New South Wales has to offer, experiencing local food, wine, music and culture. From the adventurous Grafton to the home of country music in Tamworth. Escape for a sunny weekend in Walcha or sample local delicacies in Mudgee, all while witnessing heart-stopping racing. This series of meetings is designed to inspire locals and visitors alike to get involved with country racing.
Each meeting has its own unique country flavour. The first TAB Saddle-Up Sunday meeting was held by Shoalhaven City Turf Club on the Mollymook Cup day 23rd October, 2011. More than 2000 people attended the meeting on a fine sunny day. The feature race of the day was the Rick Steins on Bannisters Mollymook Cup (1200m) and it was won by the Bede Murray trained Cheerful Dane and was ridden by champion country jockey Grant Buckley.
The next TAB Saddle-Up Sunday meeting will be held by the Goulburn Race Club on Goulburn Cup day this Sunday. Apart from the feature race, the $100,000 Goulburn Cup (1600m), there will also be plenty of on track entertainment including fashions on the field, live bands and kids entertainment.
The Goulburn track has been rated a Dead 4 and the rail is in its true position.
By Owens Wong
