Rugby race day draws a crowd

GALLERY: All the action from this weekend's rugby race day.

Nic Hilton, Cindy Ridge, Leteicha Ridge, Bel Ricketts, Moz Miller and Sophie Kluckhohn track-side at the rugby races 2018. Picture: Alexia Austin

More than 1500 spectators made their way to the Bassett Park track on Saturday to take in the Roma rugby races.

The best of winter wear was on display as crowds enjoyed the eclectic mix of horse racing, rugby 7s and rugby union.

The action kicked off at midday, with punters placing their bets on a five race line-up. In between the races, women's rugby seven teams from Roma, Dalby and Condamine stormed the pitch for their matches.

Once the races wrapped up, the Condamine Cods went head-to-head against the Roma Echidnas in two glorious, action-packed games of rugby union.

Another highly contested event was the day's fashion on the field competition, with boots and jackets being the staple.

Roma's Chantel Huddy took the top prize in ladies' fashion, while Neville Braithwaite won the men's section.

Many of the town's hotels and motels were booked out for the popular carnival, and councillor Peter Flynn said he was impressed with the number of spectators.

"We have had a great crowd turn out and the racing was excellent,” Cr Flynn said.

"I think all in all it has been an extremely good day for both the Roma turf club and the Echidnas.”

Police commended the crowd's good behaviour, stating that there were few reports of unruly behaviour and no drink driving offences recorded.

"It's a great event, it's good for the community and the town," a police spokesman said, adding that despite an increased presence of officers in town there was no incidents needing police attention.

The next event in the racing calendar will be the Cities rugby league race day on July 14.

Photo Gallery 24-06-2018 17.24

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