Cowboys buck tradition, saddle up for season highlight

THE countdown to kick-off is on after an unexpected delay.

STRONG RUNNERS: Warwick Cowboys president Dayne Barrett and Warwick Turf Club president Phil Grant are ready ahead of Saturday’s race.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Warwick Cowboys will saddle up for their second race day at the Warwick Turf Club this Saturday.

The unlikely partnership was formed last season and has quickly become a highlight on the Cowboys pre-season calendar.

“We were approached by the Turf Club last year to host a race day, and it’s sort of just stuck,” Cowboys secretary Donna Watson said.

“Last year turned out to be a major fundraising event for us so it is great to be able to bring it back.”

With less emphasis on traditional race day practices, Watson said the event would be without Fashions on the Field.

“It’s a pretty casual affair, not a fancy dress up day,” she said.

“Last year it was disgustingly hot which made it a long day.

“This year we’re holding the race a week earlier because of races on the Gold Coast.”

While the action is set to heat up on the track, a highlight of the afternoon for Watson is the Cowboys footrace.

“After all of the races, we have the Cowboys sprint for both the men and women,” she said.

“It’s always a bit of fun competition, and there’s a little bit of money in it for the winner of each race.

“It’s hard to say who will get involved because nominations open on the day.”

With Cowboys pre-season training starting last night, the club are excited for the year to come.

“The race day last year was a really good event for us fundraising wise and we’re hopeful to replicate that this year,” she said.

“All in all, we hope it’s a good day for everyone involved and gets people excited for Cowboys footy throughout the year.”

The eight race meeting is set to feature several local trainers primed for the 2020 racing season.

Gates to Allman Park open at 11am on Saturday.

Tickets from the gate are $20. Entertainment will continue off the track with performer Nash starting at 4pm.

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