The Sapphire Coast Turf Club’s Boxing Day races will take a slightly different tone this year.
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The club’s biggest social event on the calendar will boast a Bollywood theme.
“I wanted to do something with B for Boxing Day,” promoter Jess Ryan says with a laugh.
“It’s a huge day for fashions and we’ve got great prizes and competitions for ladies and men, but you don’t need to be in costume.”
There will be best dressed lady, best dressed man and best Bollywood costume with prizes on offer from Dulcies, the Merimbula Wharf and Magic Mountain.
A five-race card will accent the celebrations with gates to open at 11.30am, while the track is in idyllic conditions – graded at a Good 4 as of Thursday.
Ms Ryan said Boxing Day was an ideal opportunity to catch up with friends with many people returning home for the holidays.
“Everyone comes to meet up when they’re home, you can get the free buses out to the track and home and catch up with everyone over the break,” she said.
There will be the regular canteen and bar facilities, while you can also tuck into some delights thanks to Cheeky Mango catering, or grab a fresh coffee, with Ryan saying there would be a massive array of food and entertainment for racegoers.
“But if you want to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grass, that’s more than welcome too,” she said.
The club has been undergoing some refurbishments and there will be expanded shade-sail coverage if you want to escape the summer sun.
Ms Ryan said the Boxing Day races would also be a perfect farewell to 2017.
“It’s been such a great year and we just want to thank our sponsors, punters and everyone who has supported us this year,” she said.
“We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and happy new year from Rob [Tweedie], the team and myself.”
For those looking to embrace the family atmosphere at the races, Ms Ryan said the Tathra Cup on January 2 would be the day to do it.
There would be a jumping castle, ice cream van, craft tables and entertainment for the kids.
The day will also continue the costume theme with a nod to the beach and sunshine.
“It’s going to be Hawaiian themed, so throw on your Hawaiian shirt or outfit and there will be a free Corona or soft drink for everyone dressed up.” she said.
The club is located south of Kalaru on Sapphire Coast Drive.
Free bus pick up and drop off times and locations can be found on the club’s website at www.sapphirecoastturfclub.com.au.