Jericho Cup event doubling as RFDS fundraiser

The Mount Gambier Racing Club will spring to life on September 21 with the day as much about what’s happening trackside as the racing.

The main event is the 3150m Qualifying Heat for Jericho Cup but, as it was last year, it is also a major fundraising event for the Mount Gambier Support Group of the RFDS.

Last year the day raised almost $4000 and Mount Gambier Racing Club manager Matthew Plummer is determined to top that effort at the September 21 event.

“It’s wonderful to dedicate a race meeting to raising funds that contribute to supporting such a vital service for the Limestone Coast as the RFDS,” Matthew said.

“There’s a strong commitment from the club’s committee to support the community whenever an opportunity presents. Hosting a qualifying heat of the Jericho Cup provides us with that opportunity.”

The opportunity is there to book a table at the upstairs fundraising function and each table receives $120 to compete in a punters club and be in the running for the Ray Scott Memorial Trophy.

Basically 75 per cent of the returns stay with the table and 25 per cent goes into the RFDS Support Group coffers. With last year’s winning table, from Brandts, taking home almost $500, which they generously donated in its entirety to the charity – a gesture replicated by most in attendance.

The racing club manager said it took the generosity of many to make the day a success.

“It wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the sponsors of this meeting, Haymes Paint and Mount Gambier Paint Plus,” he said. “Hopefully we get a really strong crowd and raise even more funds than last year, our goal is to lock this meeting in long term and improve year on year.”

Gates open at 12.30pm and the downstairs Legends Bar will be open as well as Finn’s Fine Foods van on site.