After last years Equine Influenza outbreak forced organisers to call off the races, the Picnics will make a welcome return in 2008 for the 28th Annual Harden Picnic Races.

President of the Harden Picnic Race committee, Jack Whybrow this week said “its now time for local business and patrons to start preparing for this years event which is gearing up to be the best picnics yet.”

The dedicated Harden Picnic Race Club committee members, who all work for free, are looking forward to the ongoing support they have received from past sponsors, many of which have been part of the races from the start. They also encourage potential new sponsors to get in contact with them if they are able to assist with sponsorship. The major sponsorship of the Harden Picnic Cup is still open to a single sponsor or a combined sponsorship from the Harden community will be sought.

The Harden Shire Council which has been one of the major backers from the start has again indicated their support. “I think they (Harden Shire Council) realise the benefits it has for the whole community.” Jack said. This year’s picnics will again be a six race card with $22,000 in prize money on offer.

It’s a costly exercise to stage the Harden Picnic Races each year, and the gate takings only go so far to cover costs. Any profits that are made are put back into improvements of the facilities.

There have also been changes in the committee with Judy Shea regrettably standing down as secretary due to other commitments, although Judy will stay on for the year to assist new secretary Terry Miller.

Terry brings with him his extensive racing experience to the Harden Picnic Race Club; he has spent over seven years as a professional jockey and has been a top class trainer for many years.

Prepaid entry packages and Gold membership will be available and bookings for tent sites can now be taken.

Bookings for accommodation in town have already been taken for Hardens big event.

Local trainer Chris “Fonz” Heywood from Gloaming racing stables will also have a number of horses ready for the Harden Picnics. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a quarter of the field”, Jack said. Fonz also has horses running in the Cootamundra Picnic Races, which is on this Saturday.

Phone Jack Whybrow on 0402381458 for further details.