Drivers, patrons and even the horses at Shepparton Racing Complex will bring a splash of pink to race day proceedings, raising awareness and funds for the McGrath Foundation in what has become a popular fixture on the club’s calendar.
After raising a record-breaking $150,000 last year, Pacing for Pink is setting its sights on another big total and, to that end, the day’s racing will be complemented by a multitude of off-track events, including raffles, silent auctions and Bruce Phillips’ Shave For A Cause.
Sponsors have also rallied in droves behind the event and the trots drivers, who will be adorned in the iconic pink pants in record numbers, for the Sunday race meet.
“We have 80 drivers and 20 pony trot drivers wearing pink pants — that’s the most we’ve ever had in Victoria,” organiser Margaret Watson said.
“Times are tough and businesses are doing it tough, but they’re all willing to jump behind the cause.”
Fashion on the Field will serve as a new addition to the day with categories in Lady and Gent of the Day alongside Junior and Young Racegoers.
“That’s something a bit new this year that we’re trying to promote and there’s been quite a bit of interest,” Watson said.
But the day’s racing will contain a sombre element, with a minute’s silence and guard of honour scheduled to acknowledge the death of champion reinsman Greg Sugars, who died unexpectedly last week.
Sugars leaves behind a significant legacy in the industry on and off the track and tributes will be led by Harness Racing Victoria chair Bernard Saundry at 2.35pm
“We’re going to have a special tribute and a minute’s silence,” Watson said.
“Drivers and trainers will form a guard of honour with the pony trot kids; Bernard Saundry will lead that.”
The first of the nine-race card kicks off at 12.39pm, with the Olive Hayes Memorial mares race set to be a feature of the on-track action.
Sponsored drivers won’t just be competing on the track — they’ll be aiming to raise more funds through the Pacing For Pink Sponsored Drivers Challenge and donations can be made at www.pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/PacingforPink2025
It’s set to be a big day at the track, and gates swing open at 11am with a modest gold coin entry fee.
