A $30,000 feature race will highlight a Christmas party-like atmosphere at Geelong Harness Racing Club on Saturday night.
The club had been “bombarded with bookings” for the Geelong Pacing Cup, said manager Paul Prout.
Cup nominations included speedy Tee Cee Bee Macray and much-loved Messini, he said.
Prout welcomed the attention as recognition of its hard work to secure this Saturday night on the trots calendar.
“It’s been well-received, with more than 500 dining packages booked,” he said.
“I can’t wait. I’ve organised and reorganised and now want to see it happen.
“We’ve had great media support and the trots have become part of the city’s conversation.”
Many of Saturday night’s patrons would be at their first live trots, Prout said.
“I wanted to try and get people who have never been to the trots before and that part has worked because there are 410 people who have booked who will be here for the first time.”
“So as well as showing good racing that our track naturally does, it also shows the sport to people who have never experienced it up close.”
Prout said the club had also put together a schedule of off-track entertainment including 2012 The Voice contestant Anthony Dellamarta alongside various marquees, food trucks, Flying Brick Cider bars and children’s activities.
The unofficial King of Geelong and Trots Country Cups Carnival ambassador would also attend.
“Billy Brownless will be there to give away signed footys and will be available for photos and signatures.”
The cup is part of the club’s Summer Trots Carnival, with further racing on 22 December and 5 January.
Prout said a $500 bonus for any trainer with three winners on either night would “ensure great fields for the locals”.
