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By Ray Hickson

Maiden horses targeting Saturday’s popular Yass Picnic Cup meeting are set to be the big winners with an increase in prizemoney set to bolster interest and participation.

On the back of what was regarded as one of the Yass’s most successful Cup meetings last year, club president Hugh Rainger said raising the first prizemoney for the maiden races to $4700 should have the desired effect of lifting the standard of those races.

Indications are that last year’s crowd of 3000 will be surpassed based on online ticket sales, particularly for groups, reflecting the growing popularity of the meeting.

“Last year set a new benchmark, but this year is already shaping up to be bigger,’’ Rainger said.

Artieos (Dylan Parrott) wins at the 2024 Yass Picnic Cup meeting (Pic: Bradley Photos).

“With strong early ticket sales, increasing trainer interest and an incredible level of community support, we are expecting a standout event.

“The continued growth of the Yass Picnic Races is a testament to our sponsors, the local community and the racing industry’s support.

“It’s fantastic to see this event gain momentum, and we can’t wait to welcome racegoers to what promises to be our best year yet.”

In addition to the prizemoney boosts, there’s a $1000 trainer’s bonus and $500 jockey’s bonus on offer at the meeting.

Pateman’s Power Solutions Fashions On The Field, led by seasoned competitor Alison Jones, will again be hotly contested while there’s plenty of family friendly activities including the much-loved footraces for kids, men, and women.

Meanwhile, the Evergreen Turf Country Championships continues at Orange (Central Districts) on Friday and Wagga Wagga (Southern Districts) on Saturday.

Friday will be Orange’s first time hosting the $150,000 race, with Mudgee being the venue for the past seven years, while Wagga returns to centre stage after a three year hiatus.

“We last hosted in 2022 where we saw local Wagga trainer Gary Colvin win on home turf with Another One, who then went on to win the [$500K] Final at Royal Randwick,” said MTC’s CEO, Jason Ferrario.

“Another local trainer Doug Gorrel also tasted success in 2024 with his mare Asgarda, qualifying through the SDRA qualifier at Albury before securing the [$1m] Final.

“We’re welcoming back our popular Party on the Paddock which brings a festival experience to racegoers throughout the day, with Australia’s hottest emerging DJ headlining after the last, CYRIL.

“We’ve been working hard to curate an unforgettable experience for our attendees and having CYRIL on board takes it to the next level.”

There are plenty of hospitality options with GA tickets from $10 as well as access into the Long Lunch in the Grandview Marquee for $110 with premium trackside views and a buffet lunch, private bar and donation to charity.

Upcoming NSW country race meetings – Monday: Albury, Grafton; Tuesday: Taree; Thursday: Armidale; Friday: Orange*, Goulburn; Saturday: Wagga*, Tuncurry, Warren, Yass picnics (non-TAB); Sunday: Coffs Harbour, Moruya.

* Evergreen Turf Country Championships

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