The Coona Cup is set for a jubilant weekend as organisers prepare for larger than usual crowds.

The Coona Cup is successfully leaping out of the barriers, as early preparations for race day set the scene for a festive weekend.

Organisers are working to amp up Coonabarabran’s premier racing event, bringing conditions of the track up to standard and committing to the installation of new facilities.

Over the past 12 months, 20 new day stalls have been built to house horses until they race.

The racecourse now meets racing compliance, with 100 day stalls available for race day.

The new facilities were funded by the Racing NSW Development Fund.

New, 24/7 surveillance systems have also been installed to monitor the racetrack and enforce compliance during race days.

Upgraded facilities were considered necessary, as organisers prepare for a larger-than-normal crowd.

The washout of last year’s event, may contribute to a rise in numbers for this year.

Coonabarabran Jockey Club president, Adam Freeman said he was pleased by the outcome of early preparations.

“Things are shaping up exceptionally well. We have everything nailed down in terms of preparation,” Mr Freeman said.

He expects the day to run smoothly, as sponsorship was snapped up and marquees successfully filled.

Race day will involve live music from Taylor Tighe and Chicka Maiden, face painting and fashions on the field.

Mr Freeman encourages punters to wear their racing finest and contribute to the festivities of the day.

With few big events listed on Coonabarabran’s social calendar, the Coona Cup promises a fun day out, aiming to bring the community out of hibernation and adding a boost to the town’s economy.

Punters from far and wide travel to Coonabarabran in support of the town and its proceedings.

“The bigger events are always important to support local community groups, plus it is a connection point for everyone,” Mr Freeman said.

While there is no word on the forecast for race day, Mr Freeman and organisers would like to see more rainfall to give the track a boost.

Other racing meets in the area such as Come By Chance, have been cancelled due to dry track conditions.

“One of the worst outcomes for western racing is when the turf becomes dry and loose,” Mr Freeman said.

“A shift in track with a lot of dry grass affects the safety of all involved in race day.”

Mr Freeman noted, however, that the Coonabarabran track was starting to green and said the safety of the course should be suitable for racing.

“If we get some fine weather on the day I think everyone is in for a good time,” he said.

The Coona Cup is not the only race being held over the weekend.

The traditional Yabbie Races will be held on Saturday afternoon, 21 October, at the Coonabarabran Bowling Club, the event a fund-raiser for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Following the Yabbie Races the festive proceedings will continue, with the annual Calcutta at the Coonabarabran Bowling Club assured of attracting a capacity crowd.

The Jockey Club committee will continue its preparations for the 2023 Coona Club right through until race day – Sunday, 22 October, ensuring an action-packed day of racing and socialising at the “sport of kings”.