Cromwell racecourse, New Zealand.


The Cromwell Races (hosted by the Otago Racing Club ) have a following
arguably unrivalled by any meeting in the South Island. The success of the
March fixture led to demand for a second date at the venue and those
community led calls have been answered with a new December
meeting. After a long and tumultuous history, the Cromwell Jockey Club closed
in the 1980s but the Central Lakes Equestrian Club, who co-ordinate activities
at the picturesque course, together with the Otago Racing Club have built the
profile of racing in the area up again to almost giddy heights.
Located close to the Cromwell junction (Queenstown side) of the Wanaka-
Queenstown Highway. Just 2km from the Cromwell town centre.
Cromwell Races -
This meeting has seen unprecedented growth. Around 3000 people were pre-
sold into marquees from a crowd of around 7000 in 2006 under a perfect Central
sky. All things good about Central Otago are part of the day - quality wine,
regional produce, local music and arts are all celebrated. The close vicinity to
Queenstown and Wanaka and business growth in Cromwell itself has
undoubtedly assisted the development of the day. Crowd participation activities
between the races have also become popular, there is much hilarity surrounding
the "run like a woman" race and the free-for-all tug of war contest.
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