NEW Year’s Day can’t come quick enough for the organisers of the annual Elders Merton Cup Race meeting to be held on January 1 at the Merton Race Course as they are ready to race.

HORSE Racing goes into high gear in the first week of the new year with both the Elders Merton Cup (January 1) and the Mansfield Cup (January 7) set to run in the new year.

The Merton Amateur Turf Club has seen a recent changing of the guard welcoming incoming president Jason Wheatley who is keen to see what the day will bring, along with new committee member Jason Underfield.

The Merton Amateur Turf Club’s race meeting is a chance for locals and visitors to come together to enjoy an authentic picnic racing experience.

With century old elm trees creating all the shade you need and great track-side viewing, the ‘picnics at Merton’ is the only place to be on New Year’s Day.

Patrons are encouraged to bring their own picnic hampers, deck chairs and throw out a picnic rug on the lush lawns for the ultimate experience.

There'll be live trackside entertainment, Fashions on the Field and plenty of free fun activities for the kids too.

There will be a public bar or you can BYO.

Entry will be: General Admission $20, Members $30 (includes race book and MRC Stubby Holder); Children 17 & Under are free with an accompanying adult.

Coaches from Euroa and Mansfield will be available subject to demand.

Contact Natalie on 0407 888 121.

Ensure you have cash for the day as there will be no ATM or eftpos machines available on course.

Patrons can book online early go to https://t.ly/0-JIo