Fans of racing, fashion and great outdoor events should mark Saturday 30th April in their calendars, when the Emerald Cup returns to the turf track at Pioneer Park.
Race program for 2016
Emerald Jockey Club will once again be hosting the annual event at Pioneer Park on Racecourse Road, with gates opening at 11:00am.
2016 promises the biggest prizes yet for jockeys placing first to fourth and greater excitement for spectators, with a program of six stellar races starting from 1:00pm. These are:
Race 1 – Emerald Cup Open Handicap (1,615m). Total prize money $12,000.
Race 2 – Emerald Newmarket Open Handicap (1,200m). Prize money $10,000.
Race 3 – Benchmark 45 Handicap (1,615m). Prize money $7,000.
Race 4 – Class 3 Plate (1,000m), set weights. Prize money $8,000.
Race 5 – Class B Handicap (1,200m). Prize money $8,000.
Race 6 – QTIS (Queensland Thoroughbred Incentive Scheme) added stakes maiden plate (1,000m), for maidens aged two years and up with set weights. Prize money $7,000 plus a bonus $5,000.
There are no restrictions on age or sex in five of the six races. Any apprentices taking part can claim a starters fee of $173 for all races.
More than races
Entry to the Emerald Cup is $10, with tickets available at the gate. If you’re feeling lucky, bookies and TABs can be found on the field.
Even beyond the races themselves, there are many ways to make the most of your day out in the autumn sunshine. The bar and canteen will be serving food and drink for all ages throughout the afternoon, or you can show off your unique style by taking part in the ever-popular Fashions on the Field competition for the chance to take home cash and other prizes from event sponsors.
Emerald race calendar
The Emerald Cup is one of the highlights of Emerald’s racing calendar, but it’s not the only one. The Emerald Racecourse hosts fast-paced events every month of the year, including the Emerald 100, Easter Sunday Races and the Ladies and Tradies Race Day, so there are plenty of chances to catch the action and soak up the atmosphere whenever you’re passing through the Central Highlands.
Post-race drinks in Emerald
The Maraboon Tavern is Emerald’s leading pub and bistro, just a short walk from Emerald Racecourse. If you’re heading to Emerald to catch the racing action, stop by the Maraboon for great food and drink in a welcoming atmosphere, with live music every weekend.
