Plans are already afoot to turn the Newcastle Jockey Club’s (NJC) biggest race day into the region’s “must attend” event.
Thanks to an official crowd attendance of 4,881 on Saturday 12 November, the fourth edition of The Hunter has been hailed a “roaring success”.
Both the members and public grandstands were packed and provided plenty of noise from the very first race, the NZB Airfreight Max Lees Classic, won by Fire Lane.
In excess of 400 owners, more than double compared to a standard day, attended while guests travelled from near and far – within the Hunter region, Sydney, Victoria and New Zealand, too.
NJC chairman Geoff Barnett admitted he was delighted with the meeting.
“I am extremely proud of management and staff for their individual efforts in showing this city and the racing industry what Newcastle Jockey Club is capable of,” he said.
“We’ve now started planning new initiatives for next year to make the day even bigger and better.”
Another important factor was the fact it was the first The Hunter without COVID restrictions since its launch in 2019.
“Feedback from patrons indicates that Newcastle Racecourse is increasingly becoming a track of note,” NJC CEO Duane Dowell said.
“Plus, The Hunter Race Day is one not to be missed.
“The large crowd is testament that racing is alive and thriving within the region.
“Although a huge win for the club, The Hunter Race Day served a broader purpose as well… to showcase everything that Newcastle and Hunter Valley people love about living in this vibrant area.
“The marketing campaign for the race day celebrated the patriotism of Novocastrians, coining the tagline – Our Region. Our Town. Our Race. The Hunter.
“So, it that respect, it was terrific to see such an outstanding response from the community who clearly appreciated all aspects of the meeting, including world-class racing and a social day out.”
Dowell also thanked major partners New Zealand Bloodstock.
“They’re tremendous supporters of Newcastle Racecourse and we very much appreciate their sponsorship,” he said.
“This event wouldn’t exist without the backing of Racing NSW who had the foresight to create the $1 million race four years ago.
“So, we’re grateful to Peter V’landys and his team for their ongoing support to back an event that continues to grow.”
Newcastle-based trainer Kris Lees praised the event, too.
“It was great to witness how the Hunter has been so well-received within the community, the race continues to gain traction and is now our flagship day,” he said.
“It was a fantastic occasion for Newcastle and attracted a sensation crowd and competitive racing.
“My team is already looking forward to next year as we hope to have The Hunter winner.
“But, the day also unearthed plenty of up-and-coming horses like the Matthew Smith-trained Floating and the Mark Newnham-mentored King Frankel who is on track to head to a Sydney Cup in the autumn.”
The Fashions on the Field also proved triumphant.
Under the watchful eyes of emcee NBN’s Jane Goldsmith, Jess Farchione (from Nick, Jess and Ducko on Newcastle’s HIT106.9), 2022 Australian Supermodel Bella Fernandes, Andrew Rundle (Rundles Tailoring) and Charlestown Square stylist Nat Baker, Bryony Bourke won Best Dressed Female from runner-up Emily McHugh and third-placed Tara Kay.
Jason Crocket claimed the men’s crown while Dee Worrell and Craig Smythe prevailed in the couple’s category.
Best Millinery went to Sarah Crockett.
Newcastle’s Spring Racing Carnival will wrap up on Sunday 27 November with the O’Neills Tyres Maitland Legends and Community Race Day.
The ultimate family outing boasts a jumping castle, petting zoo, face painting, pony rides and more.
For more sports stories:
- Newy aerobics star Emma O’Keeffe on top of the world
- Coalfields Cup heavyweights flex their muscle
- Muswellbrook saddles up stunning new mane event in Hunter Valley
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