Narrabri Cup race meeting to return in 2022

Preparations are in full swing by the Narrabri Jockey Club to welcome a return to horse racing following several years without a cup
meeting.

The club last held the Narrabri Cup meeting in 2019, and following some COVID disrupted years, is excited to see action return to the racecourse.

Narrabri Jockey Club secretary Cathy Redding told The Courier a six-race programme is on offer when the races are held on Saturday, March 19.

The meeting will boast $54,000 in prize money.

“There’s a lot of interest now that the races are back,” Mrs Redding said.

“The grounds look amazing which they do every year.”

Mrs Redding said there was broad interest in the meeting, with horses from northern Queensland and the western regions of NSW coming from a wide field to race at the meeting.

Spectator interest is equally as broad, with the club receiving enquiries from Newcastle and as far north as Cairns.

“There is interest from all over the state,” Mrs Redding said.

“I think it will be quite a good crowd.

“There’s certainly a lot of anticipation for the races.”

The cup races are a highlight on the north west social calendar.

The Narrabri Jockey Club has been buoyed by the recent easing of COVID restrictions which will make staging the races, and its various social and entertainment activities, an easier affair.

The prized Narrabri Cup is being sponsored by Santos and the Tourist Hotel is supporting the Sponsor’s Cup.

In addition to the two cups, there will also be the Tim Bell Memorial Race in honour of the late jockey who died tragically in Singapore aged 22-years-old.

Bookmakers and tote will be onsite and canteen and full bar facilities will be available.

Mrs Redding emphasised that alcohol is not able to be brought on to the grounds, however, patrons are welcome to bring food.

She is also encouraging social groups to set up marquees on race day.

“We will also have children’s activities on race day,” Mrs Redding said.

“There will be the usual Fashions on the Field. The Fashions on the Field categories range from children of all ages to couples.”

Mrs Redding said local businesses had been generous in supporting the Fashions on the Field for prizes as well as the race meeting in general.

The first race should start by 1pm and the last race should be at 5pm.

Entry to the races costs $15 for adults, $5 for pensioners and free for under 16s. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.