The horses might not be racing on Saturday, but that won’t stop Come By Chance Picnic Race Club from hosting a big phantom race day, including ram racing, stockhorse dash and a dog jumping event.
With Racing NSW stewards deeming that Come By Chance racecourse was unsuitable to host a meeting, they subsequently transferred the meeting to Cobar.
Despite the setback, the Come By Chance committee is gearing up for a big day of fashions, entertainment, and fun on what will still be one of the biggest days on the local social calendar.
“It is with great disappointment that Racing NSW has not agreed to our track being suitable for racing on Saturday,” a Come By Chance Picnic Race Club statement read.
“The committee has not allowed this to damage the spirits of our committee and are determined to make the day a success, regardless.
“The day will go ahead as planned, with all attractions other than the horse races. A few track alternatives are organised, including a ram race, wheelie bin race, stockhorse dash and working dog jumping competition.”
In great news for supporters who are still planning on visiting Come By Chance, there will be something for everyone.
“Gates will open at 11.00 a.m. for early birds, and the day will still offer the hotly-contested Fashions on the Field, jumping castle, face painting, foot races, bar and food outlets,” the club’s statement read.
“A magnificent western plains sunset will be the opening act of the evening’s entertainment with Father Holy Smok, fireworks, and live entertainment by local Maddie Warden and her team.”
Walgett patrons can travel to and from Come By Chance by bus, leaving Walgett at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. and returning at 7.30 p.m. and 10 p.m.
The bus trip cost is $20 return, and the gate entry is now only $5.
There is still a lot of hype surrounding the day, and the committee is thankful for all the support.
“We would like to thank all those who gave their time and/or machinery to try and get the track in order. The extreme dry weather certainly did us no favours,” the club’s statement concluded.
“We would be grateful for our supporters to attend our day, to keep Comby Picnics alive, and bush races happening.”
Click here for more on the race day.
