Advertisement

Two-up back at Ascot for Anzac Day

Racing and gaming minister Colin Holt plays two-up at Ascot Racecourse with jockey Lucy Warwick and Belmont RSL president Alan Richardson. Picture: Nic Ellis/The West Australian

The last time the words “come in spinner” boomed through the stands of Ascot Racecourse, the punters would likely be sporting bubble perms and shoulder pads.

But, tomorrow, the pennies will be thrown and calls of “heads”, “tails” and “odds” will be heard in the first game of two-up played at the course for 30 years.

Perth Racing is one of more than 50 WA venues which has been granted a special permit from Racing and Gaming Minister Colin Holt to allow it to host two-up for the 100th anniversary Anzac Day commemorations.

Under an historic agreement struck between the Crown Casino and the State Government, playing of the game is usually restricted to areas more than 100km from the casino.

But, Mr Holt said the fact the milestone anniversary of the Gallipoli landing fell on a race day made it especially appropriate to grant special permission to the racecourse, even though it is only 5km from the casino.

“Two-up always been a tradition for Anzac Day, often after races as well. These things are lining up this year which is a fantastic thing,” he said.

Belmont Returned Services League will use the proceeds from tomorrow’s Ascot game to fund a war memorial in the suburbs.

President Alan Richardson said two-up was a tradition which had been fondly continued throughout the racing fraternity.

“It got the guys together, win or lose and it’s just kept going. I think people want to bring back the history of the country and it’s about going back and thinking about the past,” he said.

Tonight, the racecourse will host its Camp Gallipoli sleep out and tomorrow, the commemorations will include a Catafalque Party, wreath laying service, a recital of the ode with a rendition of the Last Post and the running of the 1800m Digger’s Cup.

Gates open at 9am with free entry for former and current Defence personel in uniform.