MURRUMBIDGEE Turf Club (MTC) is hopeful of some strong crowds to it's next two race meetings despite the loss of one of it's major drawcards.
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The traditional Ag race day will not go ahead in it's usual format this year, with the annual fundraiser failing to gain approval due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The decision was made at Charles Sturt University's end with the race meeting still set to be held on Saturday, September 19.
"It will be like a normal spring race day unfortunately," MTC chief executive Steve Keene said.
"Uni's not back at the moment and they do get a number of students from Victoria, who would not have been allowed on course.
"We'll look to go again next year and they will be twice as eager to get there."
This year's race day will again clash with other major sporting events in the region, including the AFL Riverina Championship grand final day at Robertson Oval.
Keene still hopes a good crowd will turn out for the meeting.
"We're hoping. If it's some nice weather," he said.
"Tickets went on sale (on Tuesday). We'll see who turns up. There still might a few who come along. We can probably fit 1000 people before the full house sign goes up."
There has already been strong interest in the Wagga picnic races, to be held on Saturday, October 3, with already 400 tickets sold in two days.
Keene is confident the race meetings will be well-supported with many people looking to socialise after such a torrid winter with COVID restrictions.
"That's what the picnic package has told us, with them selling so many tickets within the first two days. People are looking for something to do," he said.
Packages are available for both days.
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