The Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) have declared the 2024 XXXX July Racing Carnival an overall success.
With blue skies and plenty of winter sunshine prominent between July 7-21, many took advantage of the clear conditions and headed trackside as more than 460 thoroughbreds competed across 40 races, including several feature events.
Despite a slight reduction in the number of racegoers this year compared to 2023 figures, CRJC CEO Michael Beattie and CRJC Chairman Graeme Green revealed they were both pleased with the attendance throughout the two-week event, adding the crowds were also well behaved.
2205 people attended Ramornie Day on July 17, down from 2318 last year, while 3914 people were welcomed through the gates on Grafton Cup Day, July 18, down from 3946 in 2023.
As they enjoyed a day out at the races last week, Grafton residents Amanda Eggins and Stacey Dennis told the Clarence Valley Independent how much they love socialising during the biggest sporting event of the year.
“The July Racing Carnival means so much to Grafton, and it always brings people together,” Ms Eggins said.
“It’s a great time to get dressed up and head out to have some fun,” Ms Dennis added.
“We love it.”
There was also plenty of praise for CRJC Track Manager Jesse Boffey and his team for their efforts in preparing the racing surface for the 2024 XXXX July Racing Carnival after the course proper withstood a significant increase in racing in recent months following the rescheduling of race meetings from Ballina, Lismore, and Coffs Harbour, due to inclement weather.
Rated a Heavy 8 for the first day of the carnival off the back of persistent rain, the racing surface was upgraded to a Soft 6 and then to a Good 4 for the first time since early April prior to the running of the Ramornie Handicap and Grafton Cup last week.
Visiting trainers, jockeys, stable representatives, and owners, also praised the CRJC for hosting another successful carnival, with many announcing their desire to return in 2025.
The CRJC will host their next race meeting on August 20.
This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 24 July 2024.
