The Hobart Cup is a race run over 2,400 meters and takes place each year in early February. The cup is deemed to be among the three biggest races that occur during the whole Tasmania’s racing schedule.
Prior to being held as a group 3 race, it had previously been placed in the group 2 category. It had been placed in this category for more than ten years, and to-date, it still happens to be among the few Group listed Tasmania races.
Traditionally, the race occurs two weeks before the Launceston Cup. It’s run at the same distance as this race and using the same set of conditions. It, therefore, acts as the perfect predictor of what will occur during the Launceston Cup.
Quick Facts on the Hobart Cup in 2020
Inaugural Race: 1875
Race Day: 9th February 2020
Track Location: Racecourse
Track Surface: Turf
Type: Thoroughbred
Grade: Group 3
Operator: Tasmanian Race Club
Prize Money: $200,000- $250,000
The Weekend
Thursday
The Hobart Cup weekend often begins on Thursday when guests start to arrive from different parts of the country. Given that there are different accommodation venues in the vicinity, it’s not hard to find somewhere comfortable to stay for the duration of the racing weekend. You can also spend your time on arrival to get to know and interact with the other visitors.
Friday
Friday is the day to head to the racing club for what is known as the replacement Trots meeting. This is a chance for you to see how well you can translate the information and knowledge you have on thoroughbreds to that of the Standardbreds. If travelling as part of a tour, you can rest assured that the tour organizers will do everything they can to make sure that you have the best views of the racing track.
Saturday
Saturday is often a day dedicated to learning the local region. You can use this day to check out the locality that comprises of the Peppermint Bay Cruise that will help you get a feeling of the real Tasmania. If you get to be a part of the cruise, you will get an opportunity to take in local sights such as the stunning d’Entrecasteaux Channel, the city and harbour views, the magnificent estuary along River Derwent, and the stunning local bay.
Sunday
Sunday is the main race day. The race often starts at 11:30 am. For those travelling as part of a tour, you can expect to view the race from the comfort of the Committee Room. It’s a room known to provide amazing views of what is happening in the racetrack below it. The races will continue all day before concluding at around 6 pm. This should leave you with enough time to sample the region as you reminiscence on the time spent in the region.
Hobart and Surroundings
Hobart provides a contrasting mixture of culture, scenery, world-class activities, heritage, and various attractions nearby. Hobart is nestled in the midst of Mt. Wellington foothills and is renowned for its ability to combine modern lifestyle with heritage charm in a setting filled with natural, exceptional beauty. This may explain the reasons why Lonely Planet once classified as among the top 10 places to visit in the globe.
During your free time, consider taking a short walk along the length of the Hobart iconic waterfront. From here you can grab a bus or a ferry upwards to Hobart’s iconic Museum of old and new art (MONA) to experience an art experience that is out of this world. The good news is that it’s only a short distance away from the track which means that you will be able to get back in time to watch all your favourite races.
