Marble Bar might be renowned as the hottest town in Australia, but did you know the remote outback community comes alive each July for the annual Marble Bar Cup?
The iconic race meeting has been the cornerstone of Marble Bar’s social calendar since it was first held in 1893 – the same year the Pilbara mining town was founded.
“For the past 130 years, the Marble Bar Cup has provided people from across the Pilbara a chance to connect and enjoy a day at the races,” Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said.
“The Marble Bar Cup is a must-attend race meeting that truly represents racing’s social value in regional communities across the Pilbara and broader WA.
“While playing an important role in connecting communities, racing also makes a significant $1.3 billion contribution to the State’s economy each year, with $17.8 million generated in the Pilbara.”
The Marble Bar Race Club anticipates 2000 racegoers will attend the 2024 running of the Marble Bar Cup on Saturday, July 6.
Club Treasurer Pam Townsend, who is one of the volunteers that works tirelessly to ensure the annual event is a success, said the meeting was on-track to be a sell-out.
“Racing is a significant part of our town and its history,” Pam said.
“The Cup brings us together as a community and really puts Marble Bar on the map as a tourist destination.
“Everyone enjoys spending the day catching up with family and friends while cheering on the horses and jockeys.
“The support we’ve received in the lead-up to this year’s Cup on the back of last year’s success has been phenomenal – I’m really looking forward to it.”
The Marble Bar Race Club will again host the famous ‘Undies Run’ following the annual race meeting, with racegoers set to run down the racetrack’s straight.