Christmas Twilight Races to mark new tradition for Oakbank Racing Club

Tickets are selling fast for Oakbank Racing Club’s first annual Christmas twilight meet, which includes a stellar line-up on and off the field.

It will be giddy up Christmas style for hundreds of race enthusiasts heading for the starting gate at Oakbank this week.

Oakbank Racing Club will host its first annual Christmas Twilight Races on Wednesday, with gates opening from 12.30pm.

Club Chairman Arabella Branson said the event would be the first race meet for Oakbank since September, following tough COVID-19 restrictions imposed on the industry.

“We are excited for everyone to start a new tradition and celebrate Christmas as well as Easter with us at Oakbank,” she said.

“It’s been a challenging year for all South Australians due to COVID and our hills community was also severely impacted by the Summer bushfires.  

“As a committee we are really looking forward to hosting a day of fun and celebration of everything we’ve overcome.”

Arabella Branson, left, Chair of the Oakbank Racing Club, with Love Magic and horse trainer Kristen Mooney with Ace Attack on the home straight at Oakbank. Picture: Brenton Edwards

Ms Branson said she urged residents to book ahead of the event, with around 60 per cent of tickets already sold.

“There are so many ways to enjoy this Twilight race meeting, from general admission to a fine dine experience in the CS Hayes Bar and we encourage everyone to get a group of your favourite people together and join us,” she said.

The Twilight race day will feature at least eight races between 2.30pm and 7pm, after attracting interest from trainers around the state.

Meanwhile, Hills singing sensation Ella & Sienna will perform for the families and groups who will also be able to enjoy the latest range of O’Leary Walker Wines.

There will also be food trucks and a jumping castle and water slide for kids.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for concession, and children under 18 are free.

Due to COVID-19, only 1000 patrons and participants can be hosted trackside, with those wishing to attend the event asked to book tickets online at oakbankracingclub.com.au.