14 September 2024

Kick off spring racing season with a day at the track and a festival you'll never forget

| Jacqueline Lyons
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Underground Spirits stall at Hops and Hooves

The team at Hops & Hooves have high hopes for 2024 to be the most successful race day yet. Photo: Zen Photography.

Soak up the sunshine, indulge in delicious food and drink and check out some of the best in Canberra horse racing at Thoroughbred Park.

Hops & Hooves race day is returning to Thoroughbred Park on 28 September alongside a selection of local and interstate breweries, and this year is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Cypher Brewing chief executive officer Jeff Wilson-Shipley says the day is a fantastic way to bring the community together.

“We have had a really great reception over the years, plenty of smiles, stories and genuine people wanting to grow the local community in all aspects,” Jeff says.

“The atmosphere, culture and people are something we love to be a part of.

“You can’t beat a community spirit that’s got positive energy and loves a constructive conversation.”

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This year, we will see an array of new and returning partners providing exceptional beverages for everyone who attends.

Thoroughbred Park marketing and sponsorship manager Robbie Ringland says he is excited to see the new vendors join to make the day one to remember.

“We have plenty of new producers joining this year from all around the country, which is great to see,” Robbie says.

“We’ve got Hawkers Beer coming from Melbourne, Bondi Brewing from Sydney and a few new wineries from Murrambateman, as well as our regular locals like Bentspoke, Broulee Brewhouse, Big Niles and, of course, Cypher.”

racegoers enjoying Hops & Hooves day at Thoroughbred Park

Cypher Brewing Co is one of the many partners that will be attending the day. Photo: Zen Photography.

If you’re concerned about the event falling on the same day as the AFL Grand Final, the park has you covered.

“This year, we’ve taken the footy into account, and we’ll be showing the game loud and proud in a designated area so you don’t have to choose between a day at the races and watching the game,” Robbie says.

“You just get the best of both worlds.”

Another thing that separates Hops & Hooves from your average day at the races is the relaxed atmosphere.

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Robbie says as long as you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing, you’re going to have a great time.

“People are welcome to dress up as much as they like, of course, but it is a big day out in the sun, and we’re not going to kick you out if you’re not dressed to the nines,” Robbie says.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the day with general admission tickets setting you back only $21.95, children under 18 for free and concessions just $11.75.

Of course, if you want to enjoy the day in a more luxurious way, there are also premium tickets giving you trackside seating, meals and more.

The event kicks off on 28 September at noon. To secure your tickets and find out more information, visit Thoroughbred Park.

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