First-time Racegoers Invited to Special Firsties Event This Sunday

First-time race goers are being invited to experience harness racing at Ascot Park with a new initiative designed to make the sport more accessible.

Firsties is landing in Invercargill this Sunday, offering newcomers and casual fans a relaxed introduction to the trots with no pressure to know the ins and outs of the sport. Free entry with the first race stating at 11:45am and heaps free parking.

The event features a dedicated Firsties Zone inside the main stand, serving as a base for the afternoon where visitors can watch racing, ask questions, and learn about the day's events at their own pace. "There's no pressure to know everything, no dress code, and no need to stay all day," organisers said.

Perks include hosts on hand to answer questions, mobile rides, stable tours, Firsties-only draws and giveaways, punting help for beginners, and $1 off drinks from 1pm–2pm.

The first 50 registered people to arrive in the official Firsties zone will receive a pair of Firsties socks. Register here thetrots.nz/events/firsties-at-invercargill

Some lucky Firsties attendees will get to experience the thrill of racehorse ownership firsthand.

Thanks to Invercargill Harness Racing Club president Craig Heyrick and vice-president Murray Little who are generously giving two lucky Firsties attendees a share in their horses, Shergar and Drummershavtime for the day who are in Race 10.

Food options include an exclusive Firsties Burger for $18 with fries, available in classic cheeseburger, satay chicken, or slow-roasted beef brisket varieties.

The event coincides with ILT's sponsored race day, with 15 ILT vouchers being given away to punters throughout the afternoon.
Register here thetrots.nz/events/firsties-at-invercargill