Dark ominous skies broke open on patrons before the running of the 2021 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup on Saturday 4 December.
Crowds hid under picnic blankets and umbrellas for about 10 minutes before the rain cleared for a sunny $300,000 Pakenham Cup (2500m) race.
Pakenham Racing Club chief executive Blair Odgers said patrons enjoyed a warm and mostly sunny day.
“It was a hugely successful day with 5141 patrons joining us on course for the 2021 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup,“ he said.
“We had a great response in our reserved dining areas, including a sold-out exclusive VIP dining precinct in the event centre and a packed Christmas festive feast marquee.
“In the large summer lawn party precinct, we experienced some challenges and behavioural issues, but nothing that significantly impacted the day.”
Mr Odgers said overwhelming, the feedback from the guests had been of a positive note.
“We sure had some ups and downs this year, and too many lockdowns and re-openings to count, but we are absolutely thrilled to have been able to end the year by welcoming a crowd at the 2021 Sportsbet Pakenham Cup!“ he said.
“It was great to have people back on course and we look forward to racing kicking off again on Thursday 13 January 2022.”
