Port Augusta : leisure and tourism : horse racing

The Port Augusta Racecourse is situated 6km south east of the main city centre. The Port Augusta Racing Club was formed in late 1881 when the Port Augusta and Flinders Jockey Club was inaugurated. It has operated continuously apart from periods during the two world wars. It has become a tradition to hold an annual big race meeting where visitors stay in Port Augusta for a week or more. In the past the Port Augusta's 'race week' was notable for the events that were organised to coincide with the horse racing: some of these events included sheep dog trials and balls.

The Port Augusta Cup is still held annually in July.

Further reading:

Anderson, RJ, Solid town: the history of Port Augusta, [Port Augusta, S. Aust.]: R.J. Anderson, 1988

Historical souvenir of Port Augusta: sixty years of progress, 1876-1936: diamond jubilee and state centenary celebrations, June 27th-July 11th, 1936 [Port Augusta, S.A.: Port Augusta Diamond Jubilee and State Centenary Celebrations Committee, 1936]

Websites:

Thoroughbred Racing SA : Clubs : Port Augusta

Race Week: first day of programme