Sport
19 October, 2023
Avoca Cup returns for first time since 2019, with exciting on and off-track events
The club will be commissioning artwork which will be auctioned off to help support the club after missing out on four years of racing, and Tasmanian artist Patricia Hopwood-Wade answered the call, creating a piece called ‘Off to the Avoca Races’
After four long years, Avoca’s showpiece event — the Blue Pyrenees Estate Avoca Cup — finally makes its return to the track.
Two COVID-affected years in 2020 and 2021 were followed by the cruel blow of the 2022 race cancellation due to the devastating Victorian floods which set back the town, but punters certainly haven’t forgotten about the event, according to Avoca Shire Turf Club president Wayne Lawes.
“The Blue Pyrenees Estate Avoca Cup is a cherished tradition that brings our community together. We’re thrilled to once again welcome racegoers to a day filled with heart-pounding racing action, stunning fashion, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of our town,” he said.
It’s a sentiment that is echoed by club manager Kate Kirkpatrick.
“We’re excited to be welcoming back everyone after four years, and the weather gods are on our side this time around. We’re thankful for the support that we’ve been shown,” she said.
A whole range of events will be held for families and punters alike, with fashions on the field making its return with a prize pool of over $3000 on offer and a new category included — Local of the Day, entertainment from Ballarat’s Untapped Duo band, as well as Ararat’s Double Agent.
Entertainment will also be provided for children, including a jumping castle and an obstacle course.
According to Kirkpatrick, it all adds up to a big day on the track.
“Fashions on the field will be back with $3000 in prizes donated by the club. We have plenty for the kids with the jumping castle and a giant obstacle course. We also have yard games, a family-friendly event and plenty of package-holders who have been really supportive,” she said.
The flow-on effect that will be felt for the first time in four years will also trickle down to the Avoca businesses — something that Kirkpatrick is excited about.
“It’s great that we’ll welcome people into the town who’ll be supporting our eateries, staying in town, buying fuel, dropping into milk bars and cafe, the economic flow-on doesn’t just go to the club, but also the whole community,” she said.
An eight-race card is being promised, with the racing kicking off at 1.14 pm, while the Cup will be the seventh race at 4.59 pm.
Kirkpatrick says a great field of runners will be supporting all events on the day.
“We’re thankful to trainers and owners for their support, as well as community clubs, after so long. Avoca is well-renowned being so close to Ballarat with their amazing trainers, and they support the track, so we’re looking forward to seeing some great fields for our races,” she said.
Patrons are also encouraged to attend the HF Richardson Cup Eve Calcutta tonight, which will be held from 6.30 pm tonight for a $50 entry fee.
The club will be commissioning artwork which will be auctioned off to help support the club after missing out on four years of racing, and Tasmanian artist Patricia Hopwood-Wade answered the call, creating a piece called ‘Off to the Avoca Races’.
According to Kirkpatrick, the piece will be enjoyed by successful bidders as a collectable.
“It’s such a fun piece and something a little different as a talking point,” she said.
“We all need a little joy and colour after the last few years and we hope this who are the successful bidders enjoy a piece of history as well.”
Kirkpatrick says while tickets sales have been great, there is still walk-up tickets available to purchase.
“We have some great ticket pick-up. General admission is still available, either walk-up on the day or online,” she said.
Buses will be running from Avoca, Ballarat, Maryborough, Ararat and Moonambel to help punters arrive and depart safely throughout the day.