All pumped for the big jumps

By Glen Atwell
THE horses will be off and jumping this Sunday at Pakenham Racing Club’s Super Jumps Day extravaganza.
Four races on the expected ninerace card will be hurdles or steeple races.
Two feature races will be the highlight of the day, with the $40,000 J. SpencerGeorge Watson Rookie Chasers Final and the $25,000 M.J. Bourke Hurdle. The feature races will be well supported by a $15,000 steeplechase and a $10,000 open hurdle.
Pakenham racing manager Michael Hodge said the club was keen to showcase some exciting racing as well as run the famous race.
“The signature hurdle race will be the $25,000 M.J. Bourke Hurdle,” he said.
The M.J. Bourke Hurdle is an annual feature in the Pakenham Race Club calendar and is steeped in tradition since its inception in 1957.
To complement the racing, Pakenham Racing Club will stage an Equine Expo, featuring demonstrations from farriers, equine dentists, equine massage, nutritionists, alternative therapists, acupuncture and saddle fitting.
Various equestrian stalls will also be on display for racegoers to talk to the experts.
Racing Victoria will host an educational marquee and include a mechanical horse to provide enthusiasts and opportunity to experience the thrill of riding and learn what it’s like to be a jockey.
The Mornington Peninsula Show Jumping Club will conduct a sixbar show jumping competition on the track between races and will no doubt keep provide punters with a spectacle.
International jumping star Karasi will also parade for spectators while connections Eric Musgrove (trainer), Brett Scott (jockey) and Pearse Morgan (owner) will be guest speakers at the luncheon and will no doubt be entertaining, informative and have a few tips up their sleeves.
Their talk will focus on Karasi’s magnificent triumph in the Nakayama Grand Jump in Japan.
Tickets for the luncheon cost $50 and can be booked through Ian Rough on 5962 1775 or Russell Dunn on 9796 8636.
Keeping with the links to Point to Point racing and the Hunt Club traditions, a horse and hounds display will be conducted.
On course patrons will witness Hunt Club members and their horses and hounds enact the traditions of the “hunt”.
For the children there is a big lineup of entertainment.
Clydesdales will be on course and a day of free kids’ activities starts at 12.30pm.
Raceday dining packages will be available on the day from $77 per person with a cash bar, or $99 allinclusive.
Minimarquees can also be purchased and provide a table and 10 chairs.
The minimarquees are priced at $200, plus the cost of admission.
For the amount of racing and entertainment on offer, the admission prices represent sensational value.
Admission is $12 for adults, $6 concession and children under18 are free.
The day promises to provide a feast of entertainment for racing and jumps fans as well as equine enthusiasts from all disciplines. To make a booking or get more information contact the Pakenham Racing Club on phone 5941 1207 or visit www.pakracing.com.au