Elders Merton Cup is back

NEW Year's Day at Merton is always a big affair and this coming event being held on a Sunday, January 1, 2023 will be even bigger for the 158th running of the Merton Cup at this annual country picnic race meeting. Being a long weekend, and of course still the end of the Christmas/New Year holiday break, the event is expected to see crowds of around 2000 through the gate. Be sure to pack a picnic rug, deck chairs and bring along your own picnic food and drinks while relaxing in the shade of the huge oak trees and graze away the day. There will be six races on the card with caller Ben Sporle calling all the runners and in particular the winners. The feature race will again the Elders Merton cup and is placed fifth on the race card. Gates open at 11am with the first race starting at around 1pm. On the social side Mansfield Duo, Naturally Kerley, will be performing throughout the day providing live music as entertainment. Time for a coldie? The bar will be operated again by members of the Bonnie Doon Football Netball Club while the barbecue and food stall will be manned by members of A Third Hand Mansfield group. An animal nursery will operate keeping the kids entertained. Fashions on the Field is always a big draw card for this annual race day and this January will be no exception with big bold colours being the 'in fashion'. Gwenda Tait has been appointed coordinator for this event with Judges Naomi Vos, Julie Duncan and Lincoln Tait sorting out the winners and runners up. The first fashion judging will take place immediately following the first race of the day. All winners and runners up in the fashions stakes will receive a sash to be sponsored by Gladys Grentall (winners) and Rod and Sandra Glue (runners up). Sponsors for the winners and runner ups in each of the categories are: Tiny Tots 4 and under: Eavis Cummins Family 5–8 Girls & Boys: John Dolling & Jack Mitchell Family 9–12 Girls & Boys: Keith and Irene Kipping Family 13–17 Girls: Cathy Henry Mansfield Pharmacy 13–17 Boys: Tammy and Tony Purcell There will also be a fun section either entry or roving judging. A transfer coach will operate from Euroa ($10pp) and a Shuttle Bus from Mansfield (pending demand $5pp). For bookings call 0407 888 121. Race day pre–sale tickets can be purchased through country racing by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/mrxkwxd3. But ensure you also have cash on the day as there will be no ATM or eftpos machines available on course. Early bird tickets are available at $20 per adult; Members $30 (includes racebook and MRC Stubby Holder); and children 17 & Under are free when accompanied by an adult.