IT IS known as the town’s social event of the year and the Leeton Cup lived up to its reputation on the weekend.
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Crowd size was estimated to be well over 500 people who were all eager to enjoy a day of excitement at the track.
The Leeton Jockey Club did not disappoint and ensured that the Leeton Cup had something for everyone.
Those dressed in their finest were invited to participate in the Fashions on the Field fashion competition, although many simply enjoyed being trackside in their very best.
The dynamic event ebbed and flowed throughout the day.
As the start time for each race drew closer, the crowd packed in along the rail, vying for a position as close to the finish line as possible.
The excitement and noise built as the horses drew closer and became a roar as they rounded the final corner to enter home straight.
Punters and spectators alike cheered as the jockeys drove their horses toward the line.
Leeton Jockey Club president Grant Fitzsimon considered the 2017 Leeton Cup to have been another successful meeting for the club.
“It’s worked out really well,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
“We’ve got a good crowd, the weather has been great.
“I’m more than happy with the day.”
Mr Fitzsimon is in his 15th year with the Jockey Club and was pleased to see the community enjoying a day at the races.
In previous years, support for the Jockey Club waned and the club looked to revive interest.
“The club was struggling,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
“A few of us got together to help them out and we’re still here today.
“We created an event to help put us back on track, and we’ve been back on track now for a number of years.”
The races attract people to the Jockey Club from far and wide who enjoy the excitement at the track.
People from West Wyalong, Canberra and Bowral happily made the trip to take in the exciting day.
The first race started at 12.45 on Saturday and activities were planned throughout the day to ensure there would be something to interest everyone.
In between race three and four, Fashions on the Field were held and open to all ages in their best attire to strut their stuff and compete for the titles of Best Dressed and the coveted Millinery award.
The final race started at 4.10pm, but the activities continued on.
Keeping the racegoers entertained was artist Blame Sally, who kept the track side fun flowing. An after party was held at the Mia Function Centre to carry the event into the evening hours with Living in Paradise also wowing the crowd into the night after what was a long day for all.