The best of three worlds

ONE of the most unique racing events in the world will be held at Cranbourne for the seventh consecutive year next Sunday, 22 March.
Featuring 23 races in one day across three different codes – greyhounds, harness and thoroughbred – is a rare occurrence in racing, Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge says.
“This is very significant not only on a national scale but also on a world scale. I have not heard of too many events like this,” Mr Bainbridge said.
Throughout the day there will be eight greyhound races, eight thoroughbred and seven harness races, with a different code every 15 minutes.
The first race on Tricodes Day will kick off at 11.50am, in what Mr Bainbridge described as a punters’ paradise.
“Tricodes Day is always a great family day out. There is an abundance of free activities for kids and families.”
Some of the activities for children include free rides, jumping castle, rock climbing and an animal farm.
Tricodes Day was an opportunity to showcase the Cranbourne Racing Centre and highlight the vital role the Cranbourne racing industry played in the local economy.
“The racing industry in Cranbourne provides locals with jobs, education opportunities and stimulates the local economy.
“It is a pretty important piece of infrastructure for the whole community, coupled with the fact that the Cranbourne Training Centre is the largest training centre in the southern hemisphere, training 800 horses a morning.”
Mr Bainbridge said it was important for residents to support Tricodes Day because racing was the biggest industry in Cranbourne and one of the largest in the City of Casey.
“It is really important because the money that surpasses $100 million a year goes to salaries and career opportunities for young people in Cranbourne.”
General admission tickets for Tricodes Day will be available at the gate. Cost is $15 for adults and $10 concession. Under 18s enter free.
For more information call the Cranbourne Turf Club on 5996 1300.