By JEFF HANSON

Following multiple picnic race meetings falling to the wayside due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent wet weather, Coonamble Jockey Club have stepped up to host a picnic meeting on Saturday.

The six-race-program will include 1100m and 1300m Open Trophy Handicaps, 1100m and 1400m Class B Handicaps, a 1600m Class Two Trophy and a 1200m Maiden Plate. 

Jockey Club Vice-President Mick Heaney said there was already strong interest in the meeting. 

“I had three trainers ring me to find out the program,” Heaney said.

“One was going to Dubbo, and one was going somewhere else, but they were happy to come here and send them around because it was a picnic meeting.”

Heaney said it was important for a bigger club such as Coonamble to host meetings and look after regional trainers and racing participants.

“I think it’s hugely important and it allows us to help places like Walgett, Come By Chance, Brewarrina, Carinda, Bourke, Marthaguy, Nyngan, Baradine and all the wider small communities,” Heaney said.

“With Covid and all of this happening, it’s hard for some of those smaller clubs to race, and this way, we can support these communities, the WRA (Western Racing Association) and just help out bush racing.”

Heaney said his club had also planned to give back to their loyal sponsors on Saturday.

“We are looking after six of our major sponsors – it won’t cost them anything and we are putting a race in their name,” Heaney said.

“They have been significant supporters of ours for a period of time now and it’s a good chance to give them something back.”

Racing fans will be able to enjoy a good day on course, with full bar, canteen and bookmaker facilities available. 

First race will be at 1.30pm.

Gate entry will be a donation to the Royal Far West.

With thanks to Jeff Hanson and NSW Country & Picnic Racing