ANTICIPATION for the bet365 Kilmore Cup is reaching fever pitch, with one of the biggest crowds in recent years expected to flock to Kilmore Racing Club on Sunday.
Club training and compliance manager Emily Milwain said the club was anticipating a crowd of between 2500 and 3000 people, which would be one of the largest in several years.
She said the cup’s capacity had been limited since 2018, with the 2019 race relocated to Seymour due to track upgrade works, the 2020 cup run without crowds due to the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s event limited by ongoing COVID restrictions.
“We’re really excited. We’ve been planning our big comeback since 2018 and I think we’re finally getting it in 2022,” she said.
“I think there is going to be quite a turnout. With all the rain we’ve had a lot of race clubs haven’t run their big events, and we’re in a position where we’re looking good to do that. I think that will drive attendance on the day.
“Last year we anticipated there would be 1000 people due to COVID restrictions, and then the Thursday before we were due to run the government reduced the restrictions. All of a sudden we had nearly 2000 people last year, so if that’s any indication I think we’re looking at a big crowd this year.”
Kilmore Racing Club marketing and partnerships manager Lindsey Melis said the cup’s off-field attractions were also bigger and better than ever.
A highlight will be the Fashions on the Field competition sponsored by Broadford hair and beauty salon Georgina and Co, with more than $7000 in prizes and cash on offer.
“We’re really lucky to have Georgina sponsoring fashions and offering cash prizes,” Ms Melis said.
“We’re expecting that it will really draw some fashionistas to our cup. It adds to the glamour and beauty of the day.
“We also have a 360-degree photo booth this year, which is something new and exciting. It will be available for general admission patrons on course to use as well as the fashions entrants.
“People can come and take their turn on the photo booth and the video of them will be airdropped to their phone so they can use it on social media and get a little keepsake of the day.”
In addition to the fashions competition, Community Bank Wallan, Kilmore and Broadford has sponsored a huge children’s area featuring inflatable rides, a jumping castle, face painting, mini-golf and other activities.
Several food trucks and a Boost Juice bar will give patrons plenty of food options, and families can bring their own food if they wish.
Ms Milwain said it was sure to be a great family outing.
“If you’re around this weekend grab your family, grab a rug and come on down,” she said.
People can book tickets online at country.racing.com/kilmore/calendar/2022-11-20/kilmore-cup. Ms Melis said a limited number of cocktail marquee tickets remained available, while general admission tickets are on offer.
Cocktail marquee tickets are $170 and general admission is $20 for adults and $15 concession.
People can call Kilmore Racing Club on 5783 0700 for more information.
