Hotel owner John Gianitto is proud to be this year’s major sponsor and not only be the major sponsor but have the major race called the Taminga Hotel Clare Valley Cup where the winner will take home about $8000 in prizemoney.

“I am looking to help put some more sponsorship in to the family area, it will help to get the family feeling that I really enjoy,” Mr Gianitto said.

Mr Gianitto said he had fallen in love with Clare many years ago while visiting the Clare races.

“The racing club didn’t come to me with a letter. We have built that relationship with each other I am more than happy to be involved,” Mr Gianitto said.

“This meeting means more than the cup, everyone benefits,” Mr Gianitto said.

Clare Valley Racing Club chairman David Cook is happy with the response from locals to a sponsorship drive and said there are about 45 new sponsors on the list.

“We have new sponsors, but we need some more members for the club,” Mr Cook said.

Mr Cook said the Clare Valley will benefit from the Taminga Hotel Clare Valley Cup meeting, with more than 2500 people turning out to watch the races and this year there is $22,000 in prize money up for grabs.

“It’s a day out where it won’t cost a dime for the family, the children get in cheaply, but that includes all rides – they are not having to pester mum and dad for more and more money throughout the day,” he said.

Mr Cook is encouraging people to become members of the Clare Racing Club to not only support the club but to reap the benefits of the membership.

Memberships are as follows:

Local Corporate Membership - $150 this includes, 4 tickets per meeting (transferable) valued at $176, VIP members reserved parking, designated members entrance, acknowledgement in race books and club room signage, race day credits on course public announcements, members bookmaker, race books valued at $20, 10 percent discount applicable of hire of race club facilities, invitation to any race club functions.