HORSHAM Cup day has once again put the town on the map, organisers say.
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Horsham and District Racing Club manager Lisa Inkster said the day had been a big success.
“It’s been an absolutely fantastic day and the weather has been perfect,” she said.
“We won’t know the crowd numbers until later but we definitely know that numbers are up from last year. I think that is because of the day change from Friday to Sunday.
“We’re hoping to keep the event on a Sunday into the future. One of the big highlights of the day for me was seeing local trainer Paul Preusker take home a few wins.
“The fashions have also been very impressive and people have really put in the effort, which is great to see.”
Fashions on the Field judge Eliza Icke, of Geelong, said she was impressed by the high calibre of fashions on display.
“We were looking for nice, fresh spring racing looks. We look at all the details from the hair, to makeup, to shoes – accessories are a big item to be included in the judging,” she said.
“We introduced the millinery award this year which was very exciting; it was very impressive to see some wonderful pieces.”
Mrs Icke judged the fashions alongside her husband Grant, Horsham Priceline Pharmacy’s Cobie McQueen and eXquisit Horsham’s Shana Miatke. Lady of the Day went to Leah Habel, of Warrnambool.
“My hat was inherited from my great-aunt and I have updated it with the flowers and veil,” she said.
Best Dressed Man was awarded to Travis Cowan, of Horsham, who wore a navy suit with pink accents.
“My friends convinced me to enter; I decided I wanted to wear an outfit with a little bit of colour,” he said.
Best Dressed Couple went to Phillip and Nadine Short, of Horsham. Mr Short said the couple’s daughter had convinced them to enter the competition.
“It’s fantastic to win, we weren’t expecting to. We usually go to the races every year,” Mr Dodson said.
Punter Janine English, of Horsham, entered both the Millinery and Lady of the Day competition, placing in the former.
“It has been beautiful weather today; I usually come ever year since it’s such a great event for the community to have,” she said.
Related: Live coverage of the 2018 Horsham Cup
Horsham couple Pat and Ray Dodson also try to attend the races every year.
“It’s a great day and a great event for the town,” he said.
Mr Dodson said he placed a few bets on the day, but had no luck.
“I’ve had no wins so far; my bet for the big race is Top Prospect,” he said.
Unfortunately Mr Dodson wasn’t lucky with his cup bet, with Another Coldie taking home the top prize.