ONE of Ballarat's biggest racing nights is going to keep pace with bushfire fundraising efforts with all gate takings from Saturday night's Ballarat Pacing Cup to be donated to recovery.
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And the fashionable are also set to take centre stage with new fashions on the field events to keep the action going both on and off the track throughout the night.
The $100,000 Group 1, 2020 Ballarat Pacing Cup was launched on Tuesday morning with a special breakfast which featured a live outside broadcast by Radio Sport National's Michael Felgate including guests such as "the voice of harness" Dan Mielicki and form expert Jason Bonnington.
Ballarat Trotting Club chief executive Paul Rowse said the club was glad that it would be able to support the recovery effort in some way.
"In support of the amazing donations being committed to bushfire relief in Victoria and interstate we have decided to give 100 per cent of our Ballarat Pacing Cup night gate takings to Wildlife Victoria, which is feeding and caring for the animals caught up in the bushfires," Mr Rowse said.
"This is a great fit for our club as PETstock are our cup sponsors and we are hoping to raise $5000.
"Every paying patron on the night will go into the draw to win a $3000 holiday to Vanuatu."
Venue manager Rebecca Bell said Elysium Day Spa had come on board as the major sponsor for the fashions on the field events which will include a 'Lady of the Day' category as well as the 'Best Dressed Junior' for under 17s.
"This year we have added an extra category 'Best Dressed Racing Industry Participant', if you are a trainer, strapper/stable hand or driver we encourage you to wear your best outfit, head over to the Elysium Pamper area for a touch of makeup and enter this category for your chance to win some great prizes," Ms Bell said.
Other activities on the night include the Tug-of-War which is encourage sporting clubs, businesses, gyms and social groups to get a team together to find out who is the strongest of all.
The CUB Beer garden will also be located trackside. Pre-bookings are $20 but includes a $10 food voucher and a free drink. Walk ups are also available.
Gates open at 5pm on Saturday night. Entry is $15 for adults, $10 concession and under 18s with an adult are free. Bookings 5335 9041.
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