Sport
23 January, 2025
Bumper crowd expected to flock to the bigger Great Western Cup
The stage is set for a massive Great Western Cup on January 25.
Great Western is set to become a hive of activity this weekend, with various activities spread across the wine village.
As visitors return to the region via the newly reopened Grampians Tourist Road, the timing of Great Western's marquee event - the Seppelts Great Western Cup - couldn't be better.
In a break from tradition, the Great Western Cup will draw crowds to the Recreation Reserve this Saturday, January 25.
Great Western Racing Club president Carl Barry said the switch of race days has already paid dividends.
"Everything points towards a great weekend," he said.
"Ticket sales are strong for the marquee and the market umbrella; we have heaps of campers booked.
"We're hoping people can come to Great Western, enjoy the races on Saturday, and then explore the rest of the Grampians on Sunday and Monday."
The Great Western Cup is a one-off event for the racing club, which has allowed the event to maintain its unique atmosphere.
The tall pines that line the home straight are a popular vantage point for punters.
In recent years, the shaded views were at a premium as temperatures neared 40°C.
Thankfully, Mr Barry noted, the weekend forecast promises near-perfect conditions
"We're looking at 28-30°C this Saturday, which is great," he said.
"It means the track will be a Good four or maybe a Soft 5."
In recent years, the track has been awarded jumps status, and numerous Group One horses have opted to use the quiet track over the metropolitan courses.
Club manager Penny Penfold said the club's growing reputation has seen an impressive number of entries to the January 25 meet.
"Nominations are amazing," she said.
"There's talk of additional races based on nominations, too."
Away from the racetrack, there is the Ararat RSL Fashions on the Field, and racegoers can enjoy music from Melbourne-based five-piece X Genz.
Gates open at 11am.
For more information, visit https://country.racing.com/great-western/calendar/great-western-cup.