The meeting marks the start of a hectic six-week period for the BJC.

After today the club will host Country Showcase Finals Day on Sunday, February 19, another meeting on Sunday, March 4, the history-making Golden Mile Raceday on Saturday, March 17 and a regular provincial meeting on Friday, March 23.

BJC chief executive Ian Hart said the club was excited about the month ahead.

“We’ve had a month off racing and the track has been renovated, so everything is looking great,’’ Hart said.

“It’s a busy time for the club, but we’re very happy to be in this position.”

“We’re hosting some wonderful community events starting with the Marong Cup.

“It’s always a great day. There’s heaps of attractions for the kids and it brings together school communities from across Bendigo.

“It’s a great social day and a great family day out.”

The stand-alone Saturday race meeting on March 17 is arguably the most important raceday in the BJC’s history.

Selected ahead of the likes of Ballarat and Mornington to be the first regional track to host a stand-alone Saturday meeting, the BJC needs the day to be a success.

“The Bendigo community needs to understand just how important this meeting is for Bendigo,’’ Hart said.

“We want everyone to support this meeting in any way they possibly can.

“People are going to get an opportunity to see the best horses, jockeys and trainers in Bendigo. It’s unprecedented.”