Wagga Gold Cup Carnival 2025

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club is honoured to present the annualWagga Gold Cup Carnival featuring the Tooheys Town Plate Day on Thursday May 1 and the Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup Day on Friday May 2 with $1 million dollars in prize money on offer across both days.

The Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup Carnival is the biggest two-day carnival in country NSW and will see a jam-packed program on and off the track featuring incredible racing, premium trackside hospitality and high-end fashion.

The final fields for the Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup, Tooheys Town Plate and JRC Electrical Services MTC Guineas were locked away at 10.00am this morning at the Barrier Draw in the MTC Members Lounge.

The Autumn racing atmosphere kicks off on Tooheys Town Plate Day, which sees an eight-race card, with the feature race, the Tooheys Town Plate (1200m) worth $200,000 prize money. Amongst those horses who have drawn well are Coast Watch for Richard and Will Freedman (barrier 9), Felix Majestic for Gary Nickson (barrier 6) and The Instructor for Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott (barrier 10). Of the SDRA runners, Country Championship Finalist Canny Hell (Kym Davison) has drawn nicely in barrier 7 and Our Last Cash (Donna Scott) barrier 3. Ultimately, the barrier draw has made it a very intriguing race.  

With 10,000 patrons expected through the gates, the $200,000 Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup (2000m) is the feature race with a strong support program featuring the $80,000 JRC Electrical Services MTC Guineas and the $75,000 Byrne Trailers Queen of the South.

The Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup features a good mix of local, provincial, and city runners and of those who fared best at the barrier draw were Bear On The Loose (Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott) barrier 1, Jimi Hendrix (Annabel Neasham and Rob Archibald) barrier 2, and Matusalem (Chris Waller) barrier 6. The Tim Donnelly trained County Kilkenny has drawn perfectly in barrier 4 and Murrumbidgee Cup winner Helluva Soiree has drawn nicely in barrier 5 for Luke Pepper.

Friday’s race meet will see Renowned Horse Racing Presenter and Expert Lizzie Jelfs return to the MTC for the third year in a row conducting interviews, providing tips and engaging with the crowd. Race goers can also mingle with 7 Horse Racing Presenter Emily Riordan across both days of the Carnival.

Emily Riordan is thrilled to be back at the MTC after attending Country Championships Day, “I am so excited to be back in Wagga for the annual Wagga Gold Cup Carnival and to see all the amazing racing action across both days.”

“There is such a great atmosphere at the MTC and it’s such a unique race day experience, it really showcases country racing at its finest.”

The 2025 Faces of the Carnival, Sophie Grant and Adam Whicker, will be roaming on course interviewing excited race goers as well as assisting at the Presentation Stage over both days of the Carnival. The National Anthem will be sung by Rebecca Taber, who will set the tone for the horses to jump from the barriers for the 2025 Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup at 4.20pm.

The Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field precinct will kick off after race two and includes a prize pool of over $20,000 which is made up of donations from the generous Wagga community. Judging this year’s competition will be Luxury Fashion and Style Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Damien Woolnough, Fashions on the Field enthusiast Viera Macikova, Multi Award Winning Milliner Andrea Cainero and Fashion Model and Influencer Demi Brereton.

Demi Brereton is looking forward to making the journey from Melbourne and seeing the amazing autumn racing style that regional NSW has to offer.

“I have heard so much about the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival and am so thrilled to be one of the Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field Judges this year.”

“Fashions on the Field brings so much excitement to local stores and boutiques, it’s so amazing to see the economic contribution a two-day Carnival brings to a regional area. There are so many fantastic autumn racing fashion trends and I can’t wait to see them come to life at the biggest country race meet in NSW.”

Murrumbidgee Turf Club CEO, Jason Ferrario is looking forward to seeing the large crowds returning to the track for this year’s Carnival. “The atmosphere of the Gold Cup is unmatched to any other race meet in NSW. There is increased prize money on offer this year which attracts fantastic interstate trainers, horses and jockeys.”

“Seeing our local trainers showcase their horses as well as see ownership groups in celebration is the highlight of the Carnival.”

“Hospitality has again sold out in the weeks prior and general admission ticket sales at this time indicate another big crowd will be in attendance. The MTC recommends ticket purchases being made online, as this speeds up the entry process on race day”.

The Punters Podium will be in full swing across both days located near the main Grandstand with Sky Racing form expert Mick Wallace providing race goers with tips and insights into each race as well as placing bets on behalf of the Punters Club. Shares can be purchased for $10.

There will be no shortage of entertainment with Geoff Simpson and Jamie Way and Vino & Vinyl performing in the Tanqueray Cocktail Lounge, Aaron Oldaker performing crowd favourites in the Tooheys Punters Paddock, as well as Radio Velvet who will keep the dance floor pumping after the last.

This year’s charity partner Riding for the Disabled, Wagga will receive proceeds from the limited edition 2025 Wagga Gold Cup pins which racegoers can purchase for $5 from venues across course.

Gates open at 11.00am on both Thursday and Friday with bars in operation until 6.00pm. Free buses will be available on at the end of Wagga Gold Cup Day departing from the Slocum Street exit from 4.30pm and will do circuits downtown where Wagga RSL Club will be hosting the official Cup After Party.

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) Board of Directors and Management are delighted to announce the official 2025 MTC charity partnership with the Riding for the Disabled (RDA), Wagga Wagga commencing earlier this year.

RDA Wagga Wagga enable people living with disabilities or additional support needs to experience enjoyment, challenge and a sense of achievement through equestrian related activities, improving their quality of life, attaining personal goals and developing life skills.

Partnering with the MTC will see gate entry cash donations collected from several race meetings per year donated to the RDA, with the chosen race days a new opportunity to fundraise for the RDA.

Two such race meetings have already been conducted, with donations already collected from those meetings. Several other race meetings later in the year will provide ample opportunity for further fundraising.

The partnership will also include the return of the well-known Wagga Gold Cup Pin, which will become an exclusive collectable item with the year 2025 engraved and will be sold alongside racebooks for $5 this coming Wagga Gold Cup Carnival. A portion of the sale will be donated to the RDA.

MTC CEO Jason Ferrario is thrilled to be supporting RDA Wagga and to see the return of the Wagga Gold Cup Pin.

“Partnering with the RDA as this year’s chosen charity is a great opportunity to fundraise and spread awareness of the amazing work that takes place at RDA Wagga Wagga.”

“Allowing race goers to be a part of the fundraising experience with purchasing a Gold Cup Pin is a great initiative and one we hope to continue in the years to come.”  

Racegoers can purchase their Wagga Gold Cup pin on course over both days of the Carnival from race book sellers upon entry, as well as at the Members Bar and Trackside Bar on course.  

RDA Treasurer Roberta Bailey is delighted with this year’s partnership and is looking forward to working closely with the MTC.

“All donations are gratefully appreciated and enable RDA Wagga to continue our work providing horse riding programs for people with disabilities.”

It is great when local business’s get behind our cause and create an opportunity for our program to continue.”

As the year draws to a close, staff members from the RDA will be welcomed to the MTC for a formal presentation of the money raised throughout the year.

The MTC are looking forward to this new partnership and giving back to the local community at multiple race days throughout the year as well as the biggest country race meet in NSW, the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival on Thursday May 1 and Friday May 2.

The first race day of the 2025 Wagga Gold Cup Carnival saw a great day of racing including four feature prelude races with winning horses exempt from the Tooheys Town Plate, Byrne Trailers Queen of the South, JRC Electrical Services MTC Guineas and the long-awaited Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup.  

The Murrumbidgee Cup Open Heat of the Stayer Series saw Helluva Soiree secure its golden ticket into the Wagga RSL Wagga Gold Cup ridden beautifully by Claire Ramsbotham for trainer Luke Pepper.

I Am Lethal took home the win in the Kooringal Stud Town Plate Prelude, ridden by Louise Day and trained by the Kembla Grange trainer Mitch Beer securing its position into the Tooheys Town Plate on Thursday May 1.

Jockey Blaike McDougall rose Dupli Kate to the finish line in the Sandbar Guineas Prelude securing the Norm Gardner trained filly exempt from the MTC Guineas on Friday May 2.

Asgarda The Queen of the South Prelude saw Bon Holler take out the win with Thurgoona trainer Donna Scott ridden by Blaide McDougall securing its place in the filly and mare race on Friday May 2.

A great day of racing in the lead up to the 2025 Wagga Gold Cup.

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club is proud to announce the continued partnership with long term sponsor, Kristopher Graydon Jewellers to see the return of this year’s Wagga Gold Cup Fashions on the Field competition with a panel of four sensational judges and prize pool of over $20,000, the competition won’t be one to miss.  

Being proud sponsors for over ten years, the annual Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field competition will be held on Friday May 2, the second day of the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival and will see top level competitors dressed to the nines, representing elegance, class and most importantly, tradition.  

Judging this year’s competition will be Luxury Fashion and Style Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Damien Woolnough, Fashions on the Field enthusiast Viera Macikova, Multi Award Winning Milliner Andrea Cainero and Fashion Model and Influencer Demi Brereton.  

This year’s competition will see the return of five categories including the Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Lady of the Day, Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Man of the Day, Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Millinery Award, Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Most Stylish Couple and Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Contemporary Award.  

New to this year’s judging panel and hailing from Melbourne, Victoria is Fashion Model and Influencer Demi Brereton who is no stranger to style, elegance and race day fashion. From previously judging Victoria Racing Club’s renowned Fashions on the Field competition, Demi Brereton is excited to join this year’s panel.  

“Growing up and attending races with my dad who was a jockey has always been a highlight for me, I love everything the races has to offer including the amazing horses, food and of course, fashion.” 

Demi Brereton will be joining the MTC over both days of the Carnival and is excited to see country racing at its finest.  

“It’s amazing to see a country club welcome so many race goers over two days, I am excited to be on course on Tooheys Town Plate Day, as well as Wagga Gold Cup Day, catching up with race goers, sponsors, and most importantly having fun!”  

“I haven’t visited Wagga before and am so excited to be a part of the Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field judging panel, seeing all of the amazing local and interstate fashion will be such a delight.”  

Returning to the judging panel for this year is Luxury Fashion and Style Editor, Damien Woolnough who spends most of his days overseeing all fashion and beauty content at the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Damien loves nothing more than a day out at the Wagga Gold Cup and thrilled to be a part of this year’s program once again.  

“The Wagga Gold Cup is my favourite race day of the year, and I am so thrilled to be welcomed back to this year’s judging panel.”  

“The Wagga Gold Cup is probably my favourite race day of the year, the racing and hospitality is first class, and the fashion is always fierce.” 

“Its clear people take time to plan their outfits and embrace current trends, I love to see clever restyling of existing outfits and items in people’s wardrobes.”  

New to this year’s judging panel is multi award winning milliner Andrea Cainero who took home the Millinery Australia Design Award in 2023. Andrea is thrilled to be a part of this year’s panel and is excited to be amongst all the action at this year’s Wagga Gold Cup Day.   

“This will be my first time at the Wagga Gold Cup and I’m really looking forward to experiencing the fashion and hospitality at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club.” 

“I’m excited to see the approach to Autumn racing fashion on offer on the day, and I can’t wait to see all the style on display at the Fashions on the Field. It’s an honour to be a part of this year’s judging panel!” 

Returning to the role of MC for the event will be Riverina local Julieanne Horseman who will highlight the exceptional fashion on course as well as interviewing Horse Racing Expert Lizzie Jelfs on stage throughout the day, the MTC are delighted to welcome back both Julieanne Horsman and Lizzie Jelfs to this year’s Carnival.   

“Fashions On the Field is a special part of the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival, and the competition is among the best in NSW.” 

“I’m proud to have been entrusted with the role of MC and am looking forward to seeing the stylish and unique outfits racegoers put together for the occasion.” 

MTC Sales, Events and Marketing Manager Cass Writer is thrilled to launch this year’s competition and highlight the effect the race day and competition has on the local economy.  

“The Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field competition is an integral part of our Carnival.” 

“The celebration of the Gold Cup as well as the Fashions on the Field competition sees such a strong flow on effect to our local economy, including the local boutiques, hair and makeup salons, milliners and shoe stores all getting involved, it’s so amazing to see.”  

“Prize Sponsors have already had customers coming in and searching for their Gold Cup pieces which is so exciting, we are super thankful for their support.”  

This year’s competition has over $20,000 worth of prizes kindly donated by the local Wagga community including 2025 Kristopher Graydon Fashions on the Field sponsors, Custom Car Care, Kristopher Graydon Jewellers, Zacharia Naumann, Irvin Day Hair & Beauty, The  Oak Room Kitchen & Bar, Get Racy, With Love Bespoke Styling, Ella Bache Wagga Wagga, The Astor, Avis, Evans Shoes, Silk Laser Clinics, Blowes, William Farrer Hotel, Harvey Norman, Bar Olivette, Social Queen Hiring, Marea Bright Millinery, Wagga Wagga Workwear, Treasury Wine Estate, Wagga Wagga Marketplace, Specsavers, Food I Am, Wagga RSL Club, Romanos Hotel, and the Murrumbidgee Turf Club.  

Registrations for this year’s Kristopher Graydon Fashions on the Field competition will be open from 11.00am in the Fashion Garden, located next to the MTC Office and the Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Fashions on the Field Dress Code & Judging Criteria can be found via the MTC website

Since its inception in 2019, the annual Tye Angland Medal continues to celebrate and honor the riding career of injured jockey Tye Angland, who hails from Wagga Wagga NSW.  

The Tye Angland Medal not only highlights the leading jockey over the biggest two-day country race meet in NSW, the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival, but also offers a generous donation to the Tye Angland Foundation, thanks to VISY Logistics and the Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC). 

Since a horrific race fall seven years ago, Angland became a paraplegic after falling from Go Beauty Go during a race at Sha Tin Racecourse in Hong Kong. Angland has 996 winners to his name including the 2018 Wagga Gold Cup as well as 11 Group 1 wins. 

The MTC are thrilled to be partnering with VISY Logistics this year who will be supporting the tradition of the medal with a generous $3,000 donation to the Team Tye Foundation as well as the MTC donating an additional $1,000 to the winning jockey, which previously has been donated back to the Team Tye Foundation.  

VISY Logistics are looking forward to the new sponsorship and being a part of this year’s Wagga Gold Cup Carnival.  

“We are proud to support the Wagga Gold Cup and to sponsor the prestigious Tye Angland Medal—a true celebration of the talent, dedication, and passion within the racing industry.” 

“Our continued support of these events underscores our dedication to fostering local talent and strengthening community ties across the Riverina as well as looking forward to many more opportunities to celebrate and contribute to the growth of our local community.” 

The Team Tye Foundation assist people in racing dealing with catastrophic injury or hardship, playing importance to many jockeys and industry workers around the globe.  

Last year, another former local jockey Tyler Schiller (raised in Young), won the Tye Angland Medal by three points, claiming the title of leading rider at the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival.  

MTC CEO Jason Ferrario is looking forward to another fantastic Wagga Gold Cup Carnival and is grateful for the newfound sponsorship with VISY Logistics.  

“The Tye Angland Medal is a great opportunity to celebrate the leading jockey over both days of the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival as well as continuing the tradition of donating to the Team Tye Foundation.” 

“The Wagga Gold Cup Carnival continues to attract fantastic local and interstate jockeys, and we look forward to celebrating the winner of this year’s Tye Angland Medal.”  

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) hosted the annual 100 Club Gala Evening on Friday March 7 which saw the announcement of the Wagga RSL Club claiming the $200,000 2025 Listed Wagga Gold Cup.  

Now in its 30th year, the long-standing event provides local business owners with the opportunity to network and build relationships within the Riverina whilst indulging in a delicious three course meal, sip on premium beverages and cocktails, and dance the night away.

Guests were welcomed through the Travers Street gates from 6.00pm to enjoy canapes and champagne on the Front Lawn with formalities commencing from 7.00pm onwards in the 330-person marquee on the home straight hill.

Good friend of the MTC, Luke Francis, welcomed guests into the marquee to begin the proceedings of the evening, welcoming MTC President Geoff Harrison, MTC CEO Jason Ferrario and guests of the evening including comedian Vince Sorrenti.

This year’s Faces of the Carnival, Sophie Grant and Adam Whicker were spotted on course interviewing guests and assisting with sponsorship duties. Dressed by the Face of the Carnival sponsors Blowes Clothing and Social Queen Hiring and Makeup by Bennett & Barkell, both Sophie and Adam had a wonderful evening.

Sophie Grant was thrilled to be a part of the evening, “I have heard lots about the 100 Club Gala Evening and it was so great to be a part of the night!”

“Seeing all the amazing sponsors who make Wagga Gold Cup Carnival possible, mingling and enjoying their evening, was great to be a part of!”

The evening didn’t stop there, with the Baker Boys Band entertaining guests late into the night, the saxophonist and live DJ got the dance floor pumping until late into the night.

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club welcomed 2,500 race goers to the return of Country Championships Race Day which saw amazing live entertainment, exceptional racing and sold-out hospitality venues across course.

The EverGreen Turf SDRA Country Championships Qualifier saw Canny Hell take out the win sending Albury trainer Kym Davison to Royal Randwick for the ultimate showdown on April 5 to hopefully secure the $1m prize money and bragging rights of the 2025 Country Championships. MTC Chairman Geoff Harrison and wife Christine share ownership in the horse and were thrilled to see the young gelding storm down the perfectly prepared straight.

Wagga trainer Peter Morgan also had his success with Burrandana who raced their way into the final with a second, with the first two runners across the line in each qualifier earning a place in the lucrative final.

Local trainer Doug Gorrel presented 2024 Country Championships winner Asgarda for an exhibition gallop which saw the overflowing Grandstand watch the impressive mare yet again.

Racing NSW guests indulged in a premium trackside experience which saw Racing NSW General Manager Scott Kennedy, MTC Chairman Geoff Harrison, Professional Eventing Rider Jess Grosmann, Business NSW Regional Manager Serena Hardwick, Albury Racing Club CEO Steve Hetherton and MTC CEO Jason Ferrario enjoying their day.

7 Horse Racing Producer Emily Riordan was also seen mingling in the Racing NSW marquee, interviewing racegoers, choosing the pick of the yard for the EverGreen Turf SDRA Country Championships Qualifier and catching up with international talent CYRIL.

“Being a part of this year’s Country Championships Race Day has been so much fun and a great opportunity to meet the amazing local trainers, jockeys and horses as well as general race goers on course!”

“I am so excited to return for both days of the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival and to see the running of the 2025 Wagga Gold Cup.”

The Long Lunch in the Grandview Marquee raised over $17,000 for the Greaney Family who lost their husband and father, Jack Greaney in late November last year. Hosted by MTC Director Angus Lamont the sold-out marquee saw over 150 guests enjoy a day of racing, community spirit and fantastic hospitality.

The party didn’t stop after the last with international DJ CYRIL keeping the dance floor pumping in the Party on the Paddock precinct with over 1,000 tickets sold. The exclusive Gordon’s Gin VIP Lounge saw 20 lucky race goers receive the ultimate festival experience.

MTC Marketing Manager Cass Writer is thrilled with the return of the Party on the Paddock Precinct.

“This year’s Party on the Paddock Precinct saw a combined effort from our team and Truth Events, it was great to see so many people have a dance throughout the day as well as after the last for DJ CYRIL!”

“The last Country Championships Race Day was in 2022, and we were so thrilled to secure the race date this year, hopefully there are many more to come.”

The MTC would like to thank the City of Wagga Wagga and Gordon’s Pink Gin for their support and are looking forward to the upcoming events which includes the 100 Club Gala Evening on March 7, Kooringal Stud Prelude Day on 13 April, the annual Wagga Gold Cup Carnival on May 1 & 2.

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) will open their gates at 12.00pm this Sunday 26th of January to welcome racegoers to an afternoon of great racing, two for $10 entry (with Kids and under 16 free), as well as plenty of on course entertainment making for a great relaxing afternoon.

The Tooheys Australia Day Cup will run at 2.00pm and with Darrell Burnet and Gary Colvin heading up the local charge. Presentations from Tooheys representative Cameron Breust will follow and the owners of 2024 Country Championships winner Asgarda will receive their trophy for SDRA Horse of the Year.

Racegoers will enjoy an 8-race card with the running of the Inglis Xtra Bonus Super Maiden Plate (1200m) at 3.50pm. A strong field has accepted and nine of the runners will be eligible for a $100,000 bonus on offer to the winning owners by being Inglis Race Series eligible. Leading Sydney trainers Chris Waller and Bjorn Baker have runners, with leading Sydney rider Kerrin McEvoy booked to ride the Waller runner, Rach.

The Sunday race meet will see no shortage of entertainment with Aaron Oldaker Music entertaining crowds in the afternoon, as well plenty of Kids entertainment on offer including free kids sausage sizzle, slushies, pony rides, amusements, mega slide, games, prizes and more.

The MTC are looking forward to hosting the long weekend races and continue to build momentum leading up tothe SDRA Country Championships Qualifier Race Day on Saturday March 1 and the oncourse Party on the Paddock precinct, headlining international DJ CYRIL.

Tickets are on sale NOW via the MTC website as well as Wagga Gold Cup Carnival tickets going on sale from 12.00pm Wednesday 29 January – https://www.mtcwagga.com.au/

Country Championships Race Day will return to the Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) after a three-year hiatus on Saturday 1 March 2025 and will include the Southern District Racing Association (SDRA) Country Championships qualifier, as well as welcoming back Party on the Paddock, headlining international DJ CYRIL.

Last hosted in 2022, the MTC qualifier saw local Wagga trainer, Gary Colvin win on home turf with Another One, who then went on to win the $500k Final at Royal Randwick. Local trainer Doug Gorrel also tasted success in 2024 with his mare Asgarda, qualifying through the SDRA qualifier at Albury Racing Club and securing the $1m race at Royal Randwick.

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club welcomes back Party on the Paddock which will bring a festival experience to race goers throughout the day, with Australia’s hottest emerging DJ headlining after the last, CYRIL.

Born and raised in regional NSW, CYRIL is behind two of the world’s most successful records at the moment including “Stumblin’ In” and his remix of Grammy-nominated artist Disturbed’s “Sound of Silence” and will be center stage performing trackside.  

Producer and Manager Matt Luff is beyond excited to host Cyril at the MTC, “his energy, music, and global reach make him the perfect headliner for what promises to be an incredible day.”

“We’ve been working hard to curate an unforgettable experience for our attendees, and having CYRIL on board takes it to the next level.”

“Tickets are on sale now via the MTC website for $45 which includes entry to the Party on the Paddock precinct as well as the races, don’t miss out on witnessing this electrifying performance and an unforgettable Country Championships Day.”

There are plenty of hospitality options on course with general admission tickets from $10, as well as access into the Long Lunch in the Grandview Marquee for $110 which allows racegoers to enjoy premium trackside views whilst they indulge in a buffet lunch, private bar and donation to charity.

Proudly supported by the City of Wagga Wagga, Country Championships Day at the MTC will be bigger than ever with fun activities for the kids, incredible racing, world renowned entertainment and fantastic hospitality.

Tickets are on sale now via the MTC website – www.mtcwagga.com.au

The Murrumbidgee Turf Club (MTC) hosted the annual Xmas Party Race Day which saw a day filled with Christmas spirit, fantastic hospitality and live entertainment.

Although The Wagga Riverside meeting was postponed due to heavy rainfall the Christmas cheer was unmatched with sold out hospitality packages including the Champagne Bar, Lawn Precinct and Members enclosures.

The Viewco Social Lawn was in full swing with local window and glazing business, Viewco retaining the naming sponsor for the fourth consecutive year.

The 2025 Face of the Carnival ambassadors were announced by MTC CEO Jason Ferrario at 3.10pmwho discussed their support for the 32^nd running of the program.

“Encouraging young members of our community to be the face of our largest event, the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival is certainly an exciting opportunity and one we look forward to every year.”

“The MTC are delighted to keep this long-standing tradition alive and look forward to welcoming two new ambassadors to our team for the 2025 racing season.”

This year’s successful Face of the Carnival ambassadors include Sophie Grant and Adam Whicker.  

Sophie works locally in Wagga as a sales administrator and loves gathering her friends, dressing up to the nines and making unforgettable memories at the races.  

“I’m so excited to make connections and network throughout the wider Riverina community and become more involved within horse racing.”

“Having this opportunity is beyond exciting and I can’t wait to boost my confidence and enjoy the process!”

Wagga local Adam loves coming together with his friends at the races and trying to pick a winner. Working as an accountant, Adam looks forward to trying something different and being a part of Wagga’s largest social events, the Wagga Gold Cup.

“I am so thrilled to be next year’s Face of the Carnival and embarking on this exciting adventure.”

“I am looking forward to growing and developing as a young individual and meeting all the amazing people from our community along the way.”

Sophie and Adam will be a part of Wagga’s night of nights at the 100 Club Gala Night, take part in a professional marketing photoshoot and attend the Wagga Gold Cup Carnival, including Tooheys Town Plate Day and Wagga Gold Cup Day featuring on the race book covers.

The fun didn’t stop on course with kids entertainment including amusements by Jumping Beans and games keeping the younger crowd entertained as well as a special visit from Santa.

The party was kept alive with live entertainment by Aaron Oldaker, Miller Time and Who’s the Boss Party Band who danced the afternoon away.  

The MTC Spring Racing Carnival will be drawing to a close for the 2024 season after Ted Ryder Cup Day (Christmas Eve) on 24 December. The MTC look forward to bringing in the new year with a number of key race dates races including Championships Day on 1 March 2025 and the much-anticipated Wagga Gold Cup Carnival on May 1 & 2, 2025.