By GARRY HOWE
PAKENHAM Racing Club has just toasted its first birthday at Racing.com Park, and is set to party into the night.
The celebrations will continue this Thursday (7 April) as the club hosts its first race meeting under lights at the world class Tynong venue.
Chief executive Michael Hodge joined staff and club members in a first birthday celebration at last Thursday’s twilight meeting – cutting a cake and then collectively singing Happy Birthday.
“This is quite a milestone for us – for me personally and all of the staff,” Mr Hodge said.
“It has been a rapid year. It’s mind-boggling to think we have achieved the first year.
“Of course, this comes on the back of an enormous milestone next Thursday when we launch officially night racing at Pakenham.
“It has been a long time coming – and is not only a historic night for the Pakenham Racing Club but for the Victorian racing industry as we make a foray into Thursday night wagering.”
Racing.com Park is now Victoria’s third night racing venue, and will host 28 Thursday night meetings annually to complement the Friday and Saturday night meetings at Moonee Valley and Cranbourne.
The State Government is providing $24,000 towards the $53,000 inaugural night meeting, courtesy of its Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program.
The PRC is contributing $13,000 with Country Racing Victoria providing more than $15,000 to support the night.
Racing Minister Martin Pakula said the Andrews Government was happy to support such an entertaining opening for night racing at Pakenham.
“Outer metro racing is an important part of the industry and we’re very happy to be expanding it into night races,” he said.
Eastern Victoria MP Daniel Mulino added: “We are proud to be supporting the Pakenham Racing Club as it makes history with this fantastic event in our community”.
“The event will be a unique attraction for both locals and racegoers who enjoy night racing.”
For more on the first night race meeting, turn to sport.
