‘Huge crowd’ at return of Christmas races

• Published date: 01 December 2022
• Publication title: Central Otago News

After years of COVID restrictions, this year’s Christmas at the Races drew crowds to Cromwell Racecourse from 11am on Sunday

The atmosphere was electric with designated marquees on offer to different ticket holders, including the student zone which had a silent disco tent.

Otago Racing Club sales and marketing co-ordinator Samantha Wells estimated about 4000 people attended. More than 3000 tickets were sold online.

‘‘We’ve got a huge crowd today, so we’re really happy about that,’’ she said.

Last year, numbers were restricted and general admission was not allowed because of COVID. Only corporate marquees were available.

‘‘We’ve got a festival on down the other end of the racetrack and had 700 tickets sold to it, so that was amazing to get that response,’’ she said.

Queenstown resident Cameron Paisley said the atmosphere was great.

‘‘Everyone’s out for a good time. Weather’s great... and the track’s looking beautiful.’’

He had attended the races five...