3 minute read

If you're doing the form for Goulburn Cup Day on Sunday then grab a compass and a pen because they’re coming from all four points be it North, South, East or West.

A combination of an improving track, the promise of some fine weather and the chance to chase The Big Dance eligibility through the feature race has unearthed a stacked eight-race card for the showcase meeting.

The feature is the Goulburn Soldiers Club Goulburn Cup which now carries a double incentive for those trying to win the race.

Apart from being a standout $200,000 target race, the 1400m contest is also first cab off the rank for horses chasing eligibility status in 'The Big Dance' for next year.

Finding the winner in the cup looks a rewarding assignment too with the market set at $5.50 the field in the early TAB assessment.

Goulburn Race Club CEO, Robyn Fife says they can see the impact of the Big Dance initiative in this year's field.

"There's no doubt its helped generate more interest in our feature race with a full field of 16 accepted on Sunday," Ms Fife said.

"Having a horse as topweight (Baby Rider-$15) that was competing in the Arc De Triumph this time last year is testament to the positive direction we are heading.

"The race is the first opportunity across NSW for horses and their connections to secure a birth in the 2023 Big Dance. That link further strengthens the interest and appeal of our cup here in Goulburn."

Ms Fife said Goulburn Cup day also pays tribute to a couple of much loved trainers who left a genuine legacy in their time at the tablelands club.

"Through the Newgate Stud Farm The Guy Walter and The Graeme Spackman/ Hibernian Hotel Country Magic we also get the chance to acknowledge the impact both had on people and thoroughbreds which can't be undersold."

But you don't need to own a galloper to enjoy Goulburn Cup day this Sunday with plenty of reasons to dress up and kick up your heels trackside.

There's the popular Sundays Sounds Live on the Lawn event. as well as the keenly contested Beks Bloomz Fashions on The Field which offers some great incentives to dress and impress.

Sky Racing's Richard Haynes will also MC the club's VIP luncheon including interviews with industry participants. Gates open at midday with Race 1 timed to go at 1.25pm. Goulburn's track is currently rated a Soft 7.