“Holbrook race meeting is the biggest fun day of the year where all the family can enjoy a picnic like atmosphere and plenty of action on the track,” Holbrook & District Race Club president Susie Finlay said last week.

A professional six race program will culminate in the Commander Holbrook Cup, Ladies Bracelet and the President’s Cup.

Fashions on the field are expected to attract large numbers of contestants rigged out in some high calibre and elegant styles.

The Mad Hatters theme will add plenty of fun and high jinks to the occasion which is looked forward to with high expectations each year. “Everyone makes an effort to dress up and the whole community is involved,” Mrs Finlay said.

All the elements are now in place for a successful day’s racing - full TAB facilities and local and metropolitan book makers’ rings - Sky Channel and Tote. On tap for the race crowd is the Race Tech Big Screen to broadcast races including the AJC Derby.

“The track is in excellent order and the surrounding grounds are green thanks to the recent rainfall and regular watering,” race secretary Jen Cottrell said.

Local organisations are involved in assisting the race club stage the event. The Rotary Club of Holbrook and the Equine Centre is on the gate, Holbrook Lions will do the parking and the catering is provided by the Holbrook Tennis Club.

Race goers are coming in buses from surrounding districts and there has been an increase in number of marquees booked by patrons.

The races are being billed as a great day to enjoy autumn horse racing with family and friends in a picnic like atmosphere at the Holbrook race course.