Race ready

By Lachlan Ellis

If you’re after a fun day at the races without the fuss of events like Flemington, there’s an event running this weekend that’s just the ticket.

The Ballan Cup is back this weekend, and will offer fun for the whole family, from marquees and the fabulous Silks Dining experience, to free kids’ activities, live music, and Fashions on the Field.

The event is run by the Ballan Jockey Club at the Geelong Racecourse, and Club President Billy Smith said the event provides “a totally different atmosphere” to races in the city.

“It’ll be a great day of country racing. Buses will be leaving from Bacchus Marsh and Ballan for just $10 as well, so people can get to the event cheaply and safely. It’s a completely different feeling to going to the Flemington races, it’s a more casual, relaxed day out at the races,” Mr Smith told the Moorabool News.

“Gates open at 11.02 am – they would open at 11 am but it’s Remembrance Day being the 11th of the 11th. As part of that, all RSL members will get free entry, they just need to show their card at the gate.”

The Ballan Jockey Club prides itself on helping out community groups on Cup Day, with a portion of last year’s proceeds going towards the development of the Ballan Recreation Reserve pavilion.

This year the Ballan Pony Club will be running the raffle and taking the proceeds from it, and the Ballan & District Community Shed will run the barbeque.

“It doesn’t matter what the weather will be like on the day – rain, hail, or shine we’ll be racing, and it’ll be a really enjoyable day for all.” Mr Smith said.

Buses will be leaving at 10.30 am, with Bus 1 taking passengers at Bacchus Marsh Railway Station and Bus 2 from Ballan Railway Station.

You can also get on Bus 2 at Bacchus Marsh leaving at 10 am, heading to the Cup via Ballan. The return time for the buses will be 6pm, 30 minutes after the last race.

General admission is free for those 17 years and under, and just $17pp if purchased online. On the day adult admission is $20pp, $15pp for concession.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit country.racing.com/ballan.