Toowoomba to hold its richest meet - Herald Sun

Queensland Racing chairman Kevin Dixon. Picture: Marc Robertson Source: CourierMail

THE return to racing on the new Strathayr grass track at Toowoomba on New Year’s Eve will be the richest meeting ever held at the course, with more than $400,000 prizemoney.

The Brisbane Racing Club has approved the Listed $175,000 Bernborough Handicap to be transferred to Toowoomba as a one-off to help the club celebrate its return.

“I knew nothing about this until last Thursday and I have to say, it’s a most generous gesture by the BRC to offer us that race,” Toowoomba Turf Club chairman Bob Frappell said.

The mighty Bernborough started his career in Toowoomba and Racing Queensland, with the blessing of the BRC, felt it was the perfect race to welcome the return of racing to the venue.

Additionally, the meeting has a $75,000 Quality Handicap for fillies and mares, $75,000 2YO Brisbane Bloodstock Hopeful Plate, $30,000 maiden handicap and a $20,000 Country Cup scheduled.

“There is over $410,000 prizemoney on offer making it very worthwhile for trainers, jockeys and owners to support the historic return to grass track racing at Toowoomba on New Year’s Eve,” Racing Queensland Chairman Kevin Dixon said.

“The night’s program will provide the perfect lead up to the Magic Millions raceday on January 11 and I strongly encourage all industry participants to support the club and bring in the New Year in style at Clifford Park.”

Frappell said excitement was starting to build in Toowoomba as the countdown to December 31 continues.

“You would be surprised at just how much interest there is in this track returning. It’s not just racing people, there’s a genuine sense of excitement in the community,” Frappell said.

“We’re expecting a big crowd and we’ve gone all out to ensure it’s going to be a great evening of racing. We are also excited to host the McClymont sisters, the internationally renowned sister act who will add a touch of glamour to the evening.”

With earthworks completed, the laying of grass started 10 days ago, with the entire project scheduled to be completed by the end of the month.

“That will give the grass at least two months and up to three months in some parts, to grow, which will be plenty of time.

“Already there’s a good root system starting to develop and we are on target to have gallops and official trials before the return meeting.”

In addition to the course proper, the club has refurbished its no.2 grass and sand tracks, had new rails installed on the sand and inner grass and added two cushion tracks, with the second being the old trotting track.