After a short period of speculation, the stage is set for the 2021 Coopers Kalangadoo Cup to take place this Sunday under the cloud of COVID-19 restrictions.
At the time of print Racing SA gave permission to host the eight-race program with essential personnel only.
Much like in previous instances when Coronavirus protocols reigned supreme, only trainers, jockeys, strappers, stewards and barrier attendants will be allowed into the premises.
Penola Racing Club secretary Belinda Holland confirmed the start gates should be full of horses this Sunday after a busy Tuesday morning in dialogue with Racing SA.
“Our meeting will be going ahead, but with essential personnel only,” she said.
“But Racing SA will monitor the situation if we happen to have more COVID cases in the area, so we are playing it by ear during the week.
“It is just disappointing none of the sponsors will be there and we even had the Port MacDonnell Social Club booking out the dining room, but what do you do.”
There are eight races on the cards for the big day of thoroughbred action.
The main event – the 1600m 2021 Coopers Kalangadoo Cup Benchmark 70 Handicap and heat 1 of the Happy Trails Series – will be the first to grace the track.
The 2100m TAB Benchmark 62 Handicap is next before the Betty Fowles 100th Birthday Celebration F and M Benchmark 62 Handicap which is 1km shorter.
Races 4 and 5 are the MED Electrical and Di Giorgio Family Bench Benchmark 58 Handicaps respectively.
The 1300m distance will be used for the Richard Ray Insurance Brokers Benchmark 53 Handicap.
The Midfield Group Maiden Plate is slightly shorter before another 1300m race – the Adrian Thomas Industrial Maiden Plate – completes the card.
All events have a $16,800 prize pool.
Holland said the club was encouraged by the amount of interest shown before nominations were due.
“At this stage there are 103 nominations which is around normal and most races have been extended.
“There are quite a few from Adelaide coming up as well.”
Racing kicks off from around 1pm and fans can watch the action on Racing.com.
The Penola Racing Club hopes to welcome fans at its Members Day on Sunday, November 7.
