Red Dirt and Horses Marble Bar Cup

red dirt and horses

By Chris Morton

After a short COVID-inspired hiatus, racing returns to the Marble Bar Race Club with the running of the 127-year-old race carnival in the historic town. This iconic event has been held annually in July since 1893, traditionally drawing racegoers from around the country. With a slight elevation directly adjacent to the finish line, patrons in both the members and public areas get to enjoy breathtaking scenery of the surrounding countryside. With a Race Ball being held on Friday night, 2nd July, the race weekend is more like a festival with outback hospitality overflowing. This is a great, family friendly event that showcases some of the best the Pilbara has to offer and makes for a great break in your next Pilbara adventure. If you are planning to stop for a spell to enjoy the racing atmosphere then please ensure that you have booked as the town does get quite full.

INFORMATION BAY

The Marble Bar Cup returns this year on Saturday 3rd July 2021. Gates open at 12.00 noon with punters enjoying the first race by 1.30pm with a total of six horse races finishing at 4.30pm. The last race of the day is the iconic mixed breed Iron Jack undie run which is a 100m sprint for those in their undies which draws a field of over 40 participants each year. There are many spills and grazes but always very keen participants. Previous years has seen crowds in excess of 1600 strong and we anticipate similar success in 2021. The most popular accommodation is at the track in a big open space graded specifically each year for visitors. Travelling food vans come to town and set up at the track to ensure punters are well fed. Tickets will be released in May and available online. Links to ticket sales will be advertised on the club's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MarbleBarRaceClub