City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath is like a kid in a candy shop this week.
And, it’s not because the Local Government elections are taking place on Saturday.
No, he’s energised by the fact the Newcastle Harness Racing Club (NHRC) will host the third-round heats of the TAB 2021 Inter Dominion at the International Paceway on Sunday 5 December.
It’s a sport extremely close to his heart.
“I grew up as a proud and excitable young boy with a harness racing family,” Bath explained.
“Some of my earliest memories were over at the Newcastle Showground, Maitland or Cessnock.
“I got dragged everywhere on a Friday or Saturday night with my family, who were bookmakers.
“There was nothing I loved more than going out with them to watch the trots.
“They were fantastic times, all washed down with an unhealthy glass of Coca-Cola and a bucket of chips.”
For the NHRC, the event marks a fitting return to the Hunter for the first time since 2010.
It follows a highly-successful hosting role in 2002 when the former steel city became the inaugural regional area in NSW to conduct a round of the Inter Dominion.
In fact, Newcastle paved the way for rural representation on the big stage.
“It’s very special to me to see Newcastle Harness Racing Club stage the Inter Dominion again, given my family’s connection to the sport,” Bath said.
“To know that it’s coming back here – for the first time in more than a decade – is fantastic.
“I’ll be there on Sunday; I cannot wait.
“I’ve already told my kids not to make plans.
“We’ll put on a few bets and have some fun with the family.”
And, Bath’s urging local residents to head to the Newcastle International Raceway, too.
“I encourage everyone to attend,” he said.
“We’re all desperate to get out and experience live sport.
“Sport is great.
“It doesn’t matter what event it is, there’s nothing better than being at the show.
“On 5 December, Newcastle is going to light up with support for the Inter Dominion.
“Fingers crossed, we might have a local winner in The Black Prince as well.”
Newcastle’s own 2014 Miss Universe Australia winner Tegan Martin will judge the Fashions on the Field, searching for the best dressed male and female, and boy and girl.
“There’ll be something for everyone,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“The club will host local bands on the evening; there’ll be jumping castles and face painting for the kids as well.”
Gates open from 6pm.
Entry is free.
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