The biggest day on the local calendar has received a massive boost as the Kempsey Cup has been upgraded by Racing NSW to a Showcase Meeting.
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The upgrade increases the prize money allocated to each race and will in turn lead to more numbers and quality horses nominating to compete in each race at the Kempsey Cup.
Kempsey Race Club secretary John Graham expects this year's Kempsey Cup, which is Friday November 8, to have eight races held on the day.
Six races will have $30,000 in prize money up for grabs while the Steve Keir Memorial will be $32,000 and there will be $40,000 for the Kempsey Cup.
Graham predicts the fields will now be larger and the quality of racing for the average punter will be much improved.
"We are very pleased to receive the upgrade to Showcase Meeting for the Kempsey Cup," Graham told the Argus.
"We are optimistic this will attract more horses but it's not a guarantee of course. It nearly always attracts more interest when there's more money up for grabs though.
"More horses will make the betting better. The more in the field increases the odds and makes it more interesting than when there's only six or seven horses."
Graham said the upgrade is a sign the Kempsey Race Club is heading in the right direction and a deserved reward for club's hard work.
"It's always a positive to be recognised. The upgrade from Racing NSW suggests that we have been hosting successful meetings. They don't just hand it out willy-nilly," Graham said.
The organising of the Kempsey Cup is in full swing and Graham said the reserved areas are booking out fast.
"The corporate areas are more than 60 per cent booked already, which is a great sign for a big day," he said.
For those who prefer to focus on dressing up as opposed to betting on the horses, the Fashions on the Field will again be held with loads of prizes up for grabs for the best dressed.
Tickets will be available for entry on the day at the gate.
The Kempsey Cup attracts thousands of locals and those from nearby towns.
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