The Sunshine Coast Turf Club (SCTC) announced on Tuesday morning that the prizemoney for the Listed Caloundra Cup (2400m) will increase from AU$175,000 to $300,000 in 2022.
Caloundra Cup Day (July 2) marks the final instalment of the Queensland Winter Racing Carnival, so this prizemoney boost is to ensure that there are quality fields right throughout the carnival.
With 2022 shaping to be the first ‘normal' year since pre-COVID times, the Sunshine Coast Turf Club will be hosting a number of events in preparation for its feature day, including a Ladies Lunch and Calcutta Lunch.
SCTC Chairman Peter Boyce said that “further increases for 2023” are being considered, as he believes that it is crucial to provide “premium prizemoney” on the club's big race days.
“Caloundra Cup Day is a key meeting for the Club and the local community as part of the Winter Carnival and it is important that we provide premium prizemoney for our feature races on the day,” Boyce said.
“The Club is prepared to invest in prizemoney increases and ensure we present the best possible racing on the day, with further increases for 2023 being considered.”
Racing Queensland's Executive General Manager Operations, Adam Wallish, believes that the meeting will go to a new level this year due to the increases.
“The Caloundra Cup is one of the highlights of the TAB Queensland Racing Carnival,” Wallish said.
“With $300,000 in stakes on offer, and more than a million across the entire card, the nation's best trainers will be targeting their horses towards an incredible finish at the Sunshine Coast.”
Also on the Caloundra Cup Day program will be the $200,000 Group 3 Winx Guineas and the $175,000 Listed Glasshouse Handicap.