Kicking the year off will be the “Michelle Parsons Pink Ladies Day”.

Ladies will again be able to “frock up and frill out” to win a gorgeous diamond and pearl necklace and earring set donated by Leading Edge Jewellers valued at over $1,200. Gates open at midday with a $10 entry.

Trainers are in for a bonus this year at Mt Barker with $10,000 being offered to whoever who can train seven winners throughout the season.

One of those wins has to be either the $90,000 Mungrup Stud Sprint (1300m) or the XXXX Gold Mt Barker Cup (2000m).

Sponsorship has been provided by Graham Manley Autos.

There is also an award of $2,000 to the leading jockey who can ride the most winners throughout the Mt Barker Turf Club Season in 2009/2010, sponsored by Advanced Feeds.

The Mt Barker Turf Club is working hard to attract more patrons to its events this year.

One of its major events is the “Albany Weekender Grapes and Gallops – $90,000 Mungrup Stud Sprint Day” on January 17.

The Mungrup Sprint is the richest sprint race in the Great Southern.

A huge day is again planned, with locals showcasing their wineries and produce as part of the Weekender Grapes and Gallops promotion.

Winding up the season will be the XXXX Gold Mt Barker Cup on March 7, 2010.

This is another great day out for the family and there should be plenty of excitement as eager trainers and jockeys add up their winners to see if they are close to winning the cash prizes on offer.

New Year’s Eve will be celebrated with “Hear the Thunder Down Under” featuring Cyclone Tracee whipping up a storm, performing blues, jazz, and contemporary pop renditions until the midnight countdown.

The club’s midweek meetings are on November 19, December 8 and 17, and February 16.

Luncheons can be booked at all race days.

For more information contact Margaret Skinner on 0447 512 873 or go to www.mtbarkerturfclub.com

Albany Racing Club is also gearing up for the start to its season.

Its first meeting will be held on Sunday, November 8.

About 80 horses turned out for trials last Sunday, showing the depth of racing in the region.