Booligal Sheep Races
Even the sheep dress up for the occasion
The inaugural Booligal Sheep Races were held in 1998 when locals decided to have a bit of fun and light relief from the grim prospects of drought and low commodity prices. Patrons were encouraged to bring along their merino wether and enter him in The Booligal Cup.
The yearly event has now developed into the main event on the regions social calendar and into a national (if not international event). It has become a major fundraiser for local charities in the tiny township of Booligal. The Booligal Sheep Races now attracts a great number of visitors from all over the country - this year (2007) the big day is Saturday, 13th October!
At the 2006 races!
In 2006 the race committee decided to open the racing field up to any breed of wethers, not only Merino’s. This added an extra level of competition with breed against breed.
Great sponsorship the Cup has a purse of $500 along with the prestigious trophy (an antique drench gun mounted on a red gum block). Wethers have been entered from throughout the Riverina with past winners coming from Hay, Hillston, Booligal and Griffith.
Fashions on the Field are restricted to the Sheep. Owners use creative imagination and designer skills to win a number of prizes on offer. Including Best Decorated Sheep Award. Past entries have included "Thorpeedo" (a sheep in a black speedo swim suit), numerous versions of "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" and other Rugby Champions parading their favourite jumpers and colours.
Even if you don't have a wether to bring contact the organizers and they can line you up with one on the day. Enjoy the BBQ and atmosphere on the green lawns of the BCG (Booligal Cricket Ground) watching the red hot competition as the wethers via for the coveted Booligal Cup. The kids have fun too with activities provided by the Hay Mobile Children's Service.
2007 is a big year for the race committee as they celebrate 10 years of the race meeting. So come along for the biggest celebrations and fun the Annual Booligal Sheep Race has ever seen. Don’t be the only one to miss out!
For
Further Information check out www.booligalsheepraces.bigpondhosting.com or
Email: booligalsheepraces@hotmail.com
