GUNDAGAI-Adelong Race Club president Michael Crowe is confident COVID-19 won't stop the Snake Gully Cup enhancing its reputation as one of Australia's best country racing carnivals next weekend.
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After initially deciding not to have any spectators at all, a crowd of 1200 will now be on hand for the two-day carnival, highlighted by the feature race on Friday, November 13.
The crowd includes allocations for owners and members and some tickets are still available for the general public at snakegullycup.com.au, with no tickets available at the gate.
"We should have a really good crowd here, especially given restrictions are starting to lift as well," Crowe said.
"We've been able to negotiate what will be a good couple of days abiding by COVID restrictions. As long as patrons aren't drinking they'll still be able to walk around and have a bet, and have a look at the horses.
"It makes it easier for us to put it on, and it makes it more flexible for people to come to these events. They don't feel like they're completely caged, which it has been in some cases for the past few months at certain events.
"I really think we're getting toward having that good feel about it, it's a good vibe. We want to keep our character, which is a magnificent country race meeting with some serious prizemoney put behind it."
Record prizemoney of $544,000 will be up for grabs across the two days, with nominations closing on Monday morning.
There will be no calcutta and Fashions on the Field has also been scrapped, although the Gundagai community has organised a 'fashions on the street' parade.
Patrons will be required to be seated while drinking. Racegoers will be asked to go to a specified seating area once they enter the racecourse.
The designated areas are all trackside but racegoers won't be allowed to mix between seated sections.
Snake Gully Cup day will only be for those over 18 years of age with tickets to cost $35 each.
Under 18s will be allowed to attend on Hair of the Dog day on Saturday, November 14, but must purchase tickets online. Adults are $25 with under 18s $10.
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