Penrith Paceway is known as the home of harness racing and the popular Wednesday markets but next weekend the local CBD venue will make way for a brand-new event – Camel racing.
Thousands of people are expected to visit the Paceway next Saturday, May 11 for an event never before seen in western Sydney.
“This is the first time camel racing has been held at the Penrith Paceway,” AMA Event Management spokesperson, Michelle Reynolds told the Weekender.
“This is a family-friendly event and everyone is welcome to attend for a fun day out. We are expecting a crowd of 3000-5000 people.”
Camel racing is a booming sport in the Middle East, but interestingly it’s also quite popular in Australia. The biggest prize money camel race in Australia is held in outback Queensland, while the Camel Cup in Alice Springs also attracts a large crowd each year.
Next Saturday’s event at the Paceway will not only feature plenty of camel races but also pony racing and crab racing to keep the crowd entertained.
There will also be camel and pony rides, novelty races, amusement rides, market stalls, yard games, sweeps and more.
“We’ll have a range of games for people to participate in including a Mega Raffle, Moo Poo Lotto and What’s that Taste, which is a beer tasting game,” Reynolds said.
“There will also be yard games, market stalls, kids’ activities, food and music.”
Entry into the Paceway is by gold coin, while there is a VIP Food and Beverage package available also.
“Our Camels on the Terrace VIP package includes food and drink, casual reserved seating, private restroom facilities, lucky door prizes and an unrivalled view of the track,” Reynolds said.
So if you’re after a unique night out next Saturday, head along to Penrith Paceway for something you’ve probably never seen before. All the action kicks off at 4pm and runs well into the night.
To book the VIP package, visit http://www.trybooking.com/BCABS.
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.