The annual Coast Race Day at Gosford on May 7 was a huge success, with more than 4,000 guests passing through the gates.
“We were thrilled that the weather turned it on in the days leading up to the event, just enough to dry the track (which was upgraded to a soft 7 on the day) and surrounding trackside areas, which were all pre-booked by guests,” Gosford Race Club CEO, Daniel Lacey, said.
“It was pleasing to see the large crowds after a difficult couple of years with COVID restricting attendance and capacity to our bigger events.”
A massive 10-race program featured some of Gosford’s best racing action with the MostynCopper Gosford Gold Cup won by Numerian, trained by Annabel Neasham and ridden by Sam Clipperton.
The DeBortoli Wines Takeover Target was won by Blondeau, trained by Chris Waller and ridden by Chad Schofield, while The Coast was won by Rustic Steel, trained by Kris Lees and ridden by Jay Ford.
The day also featured the inaugural running of the Thunder Thousand, which was won by Siege, trained by James Cummings and ridden by Rachel King.
Off the track, racegoers were treated to live music by Balinese duo Kuta Groove in the Hooves Beach Club and, following the last race, the Powderfinger Tribute band.
Fashionistas came from near and far to compete for the more than $10,000 prize pool in The Coast Fashions on the Field competition, this year sporting a digital spin.
“We decided to adopt the more digital format for this year’s Fashions on the Field competition to align with our local members and race day attendees,” Race Club Commercial Manager, Kristina Ayton, said.
“We have found in previous years that a lot of people are turned off the idea of competing because of the pressure of getting up on stage and parading in front of judges and a crowd. By removing this pressure, we hoped to attract those who wouldn’t necessarily register as well as the passionate contestants who travel from afar.
“The level of glamour and professionalism on display was incredible and, with a few tweaks, I believe this format will be very popular moving forward.”
Best Dressed Lady on the day was Debbie Winter, Best Dressed Gentleman was Craig Smythe and Best Dressed Contemporary Sharon Edmonds.
Race Club Chairman, Michael Cusick, said the race day puts The Coast firmly back on the map and attracts visitors from across NSW and beyond.
With the racing industry on the Central Coast looking up, punters and fashionistas alike can look forward to more fun at the ever-improving Gosford Races.
To keep up with all local racing news, go to this website www.theentertainmentgrounds.com.au
Sources: Raceday reporter David Abrahams & Media statements, May 12, 2021 Gosford Race Club