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Illawarra Hawks championship-winning Head Coach, Justin Tatum, will strike The Gong ahead of this year’s edition of the $1 million race, which is again sponsored by The Illawarra Mercury.

The much-loved tradition takes place in the mounting once contenders have headed to the barriers, and signals the imminent start of the Group 3, 1600m feature.

Illawarra Hawks' Head Coach, Justin Tatum, practices striking The Gong

Tatum joins Olympic medallist Jessic Hull, UFC Champion Alexander Volkanovski, City of Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown, and The Gong-winning trainer Rob Price in being entrusted with the honour.

“We are building an impressive roll call of Gong strikers and feel Justin is a perfect fit given his impact on the Hawks’ success in the 2025 NBL Championship,” said Illawarra Turf Club's CEO, Steven Keene said.

“We are looking forward to welcoming him to the track for our stand-alone Saturday race meeting.”

The Gong is Kembla Grange Racecourse’s biggest day of the year with 7,000 people expected on track on Saturday 22nd November.

There are nine support races on the program including The Warra, which was elevated to Group 3 status in 2024.

Food trucks will be in abundance along with pop-up bars, glam stand, a Fashions on the Field, and live entertainment all day including DJs, musicians, and cover band Reckless.

Hospitality is almost sold out for The Gong, but tickets are still available for The Little Gong Beer Garden, Trackside Precinct, Mitch Beer Racing Marquee, and General Admission.

“While special precincts and all-inclusive packages are a great way to elevate your raceday experience, a General Admission ticket is all you need to enjoy the best of The Gong,” said ITC's Operations Manager, Chloe Hackett.

To buy tickets CLICK HERE