All the Otago Racing Club needs now is some fine weather and a few thousand punters to create another memorable Melbourne Cup Day.
The club is eagerly awaiting today’s meeting at Wingatui, the first to be held with no Covid restrictions for three years.
"It’s a really good feeling out here and we’re looking forward to Cup Day," Otago Racing Club general manager Noelle Prince said yesterday.
"It’s nice to actually have some certainty this year. Last year, we didn’t know if restrictions would change or what would happen, so it’s nice to be certain and ready to welcome everyone.
"It’s a bit of relief after the last couple of years.
"The team have done an awesome job and the place is looking great and we can’t wait to get the gates open.
"Hopefully the weather will play ball. You can never be 100% but it’s looking promising."
Prince was unsure how many students — they generally provide much of the Cup Day atmosphere — would pass through the gates, as many still had exam commitments.
General ticket sales had still been strong, and she hoped for a crowd of 3500-plus for the nine-race Wingatui meeting, followed by watching the Melbourne Cup on the big screens.
Prince hailed from the UK but knew all about the buzz of "the race that stops a nation".
"It’s nice to play a small part in the day. Any bit of excitement we can bring to racegoers over here ... we just love that."
The traditional Fashion On The Field competition should again attract 40-50 entrants, Prince said.
As for the horses, Prince is keen to see local stable White Robe Lodge have a big day.
She likes White Robe-bred Smokin’ Romans in the Melbourne Cup, and thinks Exchange will be hard to beat in the main race at Wingatui.
Guest selections
Melbourne Cup Day 2022
Corey Campbell, Jockey
Melbourne Cup: Smokin’ Romans
Wingatui: Exchange
Murray Acklin, Otago Racing Club president
Melbourne Cup: Smokin’ Romans, Without A Fight
Wingatui: Robina Joy
Debbie Kennedy, jockey/trainer
Melbourne Cup: Montefilia
Wingatui: Exchange, Zouluminous
