Ballarat Cup attendees to be extremely limited

THE Ballarat Turf Club has announced that a very small number of people will be able to attend this year’s race day in person.

Despite the State Government allowing a maximum of 70 people in groups of no more than 10 to be present at such events, Racing Victoria protocols cap the allowable number at up to 30 people to be at the track for the close of the Spring Racing carnival.

Those 30 attendees are limited to owners and a few sponsors.

“While it was very disappointing the Club will not be in a position to host our regular crowds of 10,000 people or more, we are certainly grateful to still be able to conduct the raceday and welcome owners in some capacity in this unusual year,” said BTC CEO Belinda Glass.

Even though Victoria has seen continued declining numbers of COVID-19 cases, Ms Glass said the BTC board had to make a decision now, based on the information available for the Saturday, 21 November event.

“It was important for the Club to make a call, so all staff and stakeholders could move on with planning for the day,” she said.

Although there won’t be massive crowds, staff can now finalise plans for the safe attendance of a small group of registered owners, maintaining separation from essential staff at all times for the ongoing protection of racing.

With going to the Cup off the cards for most people, the Ballarat Turf Club was throwing its support behind alternative opportunities to take part in the day.

That includes a Back to Ballarat and Support their Local campaign and a Fashions Off the Field competition backed by Central Square.

“If you can’t be trackside enjoying the excitement of Cup Day, then the next best thing will be to enjoy it with friends, family or work mates with live racing broadcast on Racing.com and betting faculties open in many hotels and venues across the city,” Ms Glass said.