REVELLERS, socialites, parents, retirees and traditional race lovers all intertwined on the sun-drenched landing of the Murrumbidgee Turf Club on Friday.
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They were drawn together by a range of different enticements, but ultimately shared the goal of social camaraderie and enjoyment.
Wagga students Danicka Wooden and Jenni Fraser relished the opportunity to attend the Gold Cup for the first time, describing “fashion, selfies and socialising” as the carnival’s biggest drawing points.
“We’re not huge on the racing but we’ll probably put a $5 bet on the main race so we have a reason to get into it,” Ms Wooden said.
“It’s a good chance to get out and have some drinks, take some selfies and catch up with friends.
“I think for a lot of people it’s more about the atmosphere and the publicity of the race and the festival, rather than the racing and the betting alone.”
But Ian Hitchcliffe, a life-time racing fan from Canberra who describes himself as a “born and bred track tragic”, stressed the importance that tradition is maintained.
“I think you glance around nowadays and it’s become more about flesh and beer than the thing that the event was actually founded for,” he said.
“I love a beer as much as the next, and trust me I’ve knocked back a few – but the meaning of this day is the spirit of competition, and a chance for young riders with dreams to put themselves on the map.
“I don’t have a problem with people that just want to get drunk, but it’s not what racing is about.”
Shelley Mauder, Jaydon Pierce and an accompanying group of local friends boldly admitted that “vodka” was one of the main reasons they took to the track.
“There’s nothing wrong with cracking into some bevs (beverages) and letting the hair down, we work hard and we deserve to party,” Ms Mauder said.
“Sure, we’ll have a bet, but the weather is off chops and who cares if we don’t like horse racing anyway,” Mr Pierce added.
“And we’ll be back next year for another one, or ten.”
The attendance saw a diverse mix of young people, executives, retirees, volunteers, bookies – all brought together in Wagga.