WITH less than two months to go until the gallopers jump from the gates, the Warwick Credit Union Warwick Cup is heating up – if the latest figures are anything to go by.

This year marks the 150th celebration of the race meet – one month before the Melbourne Cup celebrates the milestone – and the marquee area has been increased to incorporate predicted bumper numbers.

Warwick Turf Club president Garry Adcock said marquee numbers were set at 450 but, with about seven weeks to go until the big day, only 150 places remained.

“It’s the 150th running of the cup. The Warwick Turf Club has been going longer than that but we’ve missed a few races because of EI and it was turned into an army camp at one stage,” Mr Adcock said.

The Warwick Cup is one of regional Queensland’s richest race meets with the Warwick Credit Union Warwick Cup prize totalling $20,000, attracting big horse and trainer names.

“The total prize pool for the day is $60,000 with six races and this year the Fraser’s Livestock Transport Newmarket handicap is $12,000,” Mr Adcock said.

More than $3000 is also on offer for the lady who wins CGI Insurance Fashions on the Field.

The website, with Laura Geitz as ambassador, was launched last week at www.warwickcup.com.au.

Warwick Cup

When: Saturday, October 9

Hosted by: Warwick Turf Club

The event is one of regional Queensland’s richest race meets

There are more than $3000 worth of prizes for winner of CGU Insurance Fashions on the Field