Premier

Boost For Horsham’s Pacing Cup

20 April 2018

Harness racing in Horsham will receive a major boost, thanks to a joint funding package of $52,000 supported by the Andrews Labor Government.

The Labor Government is providing more than $10,000 from the Victoria Racing Industry Fund to support the Horsham Pacing Cup, and a further $11,800 for an extension of the Horsham & District Harness Racing Club’s storage shed.

As part of the Pacing Cup event on this Sunday, 22 April, patrons will have the chance to participate in the ‘Owner for a Day’ competition. It will see each horse in the Pacing Cup allocated an ‘owner’ who will get the same prize money as the real owner if their horse wins.

The competition owners will also get the chance to tour the stables, meet the driver and trainer of their horse, and enjoy a special food and drink package in an exclusive owners’ marquee.

Racegoers will also enjoy a range of trackside entertainments, including live music from local musician Darryn Wardle. A number of accommodation packages will also be given away in sweeps competitions on the day, and there will be a jumping castle, blow-up slide, face painting, and games on offer for children.

The HERO (Harness Education and Rehoming Opportunities) team will also be running pony trots on the day.

The storage shed extension is expected to be completed later this year, providing greater security and protection for club assets such as mobile starter gates, tractors and a water truck. The upgraded facility will provide an additional 144 square metres of storage.

Harness Racing Victoria is providing almost $12,000 towards the shed extension, while Horsham & District Harness Racing Club is providing almost $10,000 towards the Pacing Cup race day. Local businesses and volunteers are providing almost $8,000 in additional in-kind support for the Pacing Cup.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $285,000 to support five infrastructure and one harness racing event at Horsham. The racing industry in the Wimmera region generates more than $37 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain more than 360 full-time equivalent jobs.

Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“We’re proud to support the Horsham Pacing Cup because it creates jobs, attracts visitors and delivers economic benefits to the local economy.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford

“This is a fantastic boost for harness racing in Horsham which will help to attract even more people to our beautiful region.”

Quote attributable to Horsham & District Harness Racing Club President Justin Lane

“Government support is vital for major community events such as the Horsham Pacing Cup, and helps us introduce great innovations like our ‘Owner for a Day’ competition.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

Was this page helpful?