SCU hosts a free day at the races

Members of the public will be given free admission to Lismore Turf Club's race meeting this Saturday, April 13 when a full race card will feature events with a University-related theme.

The feature race will be the Southern Cross University Cup over a distance of 1300m, while other races include the Graduation Plate, Vice-Chancellor's Handicap, Southern Cross University Union Maiden Plate and Southern Cross University Alumni Maiden Plate.

The third annual Southern Cross University Cup is sure to attract a bumper crowd and help establish the day as a major fixture on the local calendar, according to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Rickard.

With free public admission and the anticipation of another large crowd, likely include up to 800 SCU students and 200 staff, the day will again be a successful one.

The first event is at 1.00pm, with the last race, which will be followed by barrier trials, to start at 4.00pm. Bookmakers and the TAB will operate on the full card as well as interstate fixtures.

Professor Rickard, who will present the prizes to owners, jockeys and trainers, encouraged all racegoers to deck themselves out in their finest - or craziest - attire and enjoy what will again be a thoroughly enjoyable day for people of all ages.

"It's a great time of year to enjoy the weather, the race-day fashions and the beautifully prepared horses," he said. "Everyone in the community is invited to attend, especially if they've never been to the races before, and we look forward to welcoming you."