Time to bring out the fascinators

Sharron Pardoe Reporter from The Hastings Mail

They call themselves the Fun and Fascinators Syndicate and there will be plenty of both on display this weekend when the group of galloping enthusiasts hit town for Hawke's Bay Racing's first spring carnival of the year.

The 32 syndicate members are converging from around the North Island and donning their finest yellow accessories as they enjoy Tarzino Trophy Daffodil Race Day at the Hastings race course on Saturday.

Syndicate founder Emma-Lee Browne, a Waikato race trainer, said she always looks forward to this time of year and had an itinerary for her group guaranteed to ensure plenty of fun.

"We'll kick the trip off with some wine tasting and lunch at Craggy Range and have booked out the lodges on St George and Cottages on St Andrews for accommodation. Everyone's really excited to get together and enjoy the atmosphere in Hawke's Bay over the carnival."

The syndicate own a race horse, Hattie, who is yet to race.

While their focus is on fun and socialising, there was a seriously positive spin-off to attracting the likes of the Fun and Fascinators to the Bay for big racedays, Hawke's Bay Racing CEO Butch Castles said.

"Of the 30 odd members of this group coming to the races the vast majority are from out of Hawke's Bay. They will stay in motels, visit a winery and no doubt a few restaurants/bars. Not only is their economic footprint positive, but after a great couple of days they will return to their various parts of New Zealand singing the praises of a weekend in the Bay."

Economic impact reports show the racing industry in the Hawke's Bay/Gisborne region is responsible for generating more than $32 million in value added contribution to GDP. Customers spend well over $3.6 million as a result of attending races like Spring Carnival.

Saturday's raceday will be the first where the course is completely smoke-free, a move Castles said enhanced Hawke's Bay Racing's commitment to the ideals of the Cancer Society, which will benefit from fundraising efforts on the day.

* Those attending Saturday's Tarzino Trophy Daffodil Race Day are encouraged to wear something yellow, with all gate donation fees and proceeds from a charity auction supporting Hawke's Bay's Cancer Society.