A DECISION on whether any patrons or horse owners will be allowed on course for this year's Apiam Bendigo Cup is expected this week.
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As talks continue between the racing industry and state government, Bendigo Jockey Club chief executive officer Aaron Hearps said he anticipated a decision on anyone other licensed participants and essential staff being allowed on course on October 28 by later this week.
The BJC has long braced for a crowdless Cup event as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but has continued to explore multiple options to cater for crowd involvement, including off-course activities and promotions.
The easing of coronavirus restrictions across regional Victoria and the decline in the number of cases has offered a glimpse of hope some owners and patrons will be allowed on course.
Regardless of crowd numbers, Hearps said the BJC was intent on turning a negative into a positive and was encouraging the local community to celebrate the race by supporting a number of local hospitality businesses, which have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 throughout the year.
"While discussions between the racing industry and the state government in relation to the return of patrons to racecourses are nearing completion, we want to encourage the wider Bendigo community to also celebrate this year's Bendigo Cup off-course at a local venue and make their bookings now," Hearps said.
"We have been working with the City of Greater Bendigo council and will be assisting the local business community by offering a complimentary race naming sponsorship, valued at approximately $7000, as a prize for a randomly selected business that promotes this year's Cup day in-store or via their social media channels.
"The Bendigo Cup will be broadcast free-to-air on Racing.com (channel 68) which is available to 95 per cent of the national population so we believe this would be a great incentive for the local business community to get involved with."
The club intends to conduct a virtual 'fashions off the field' competition and has developed promotional packs for use at hospitality businesses intending to celebrate cup day.
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