THE Mansfield Hygain Cup on Sunday, January 9 will provide a great day of picnic racing for all ages.

In addition to six thrilling races, there will be a host of entertainment at Mansfield's picturesque and spacious course.

Junior racegoers (16 years and under) receive free entry and will be entertained in the Foodworks Kids Funzone by live entertainers, jumping castle, rides, face painting and Kelly Sports.

Young fashionistas are invited to don their most fabulous outfit and enter Fashions on the Field on the main stage, where there are great prizes to be won.

The fashions competition, sponsored by Delatite Wines, also features a number of adult categories and amazing prizes, including accommodation and meal packages, and thrilling High Country experiences such as a Global Ballooning sunrise flight.

The main stage will also be the venue for performances by family favourites Mr Marvel and Tim Tam, and musical entertainment by talented Mansfield sisters Rose and Scarlett Hanratty.

Another musical treat will be a performance of the National Anthem by popular songstress and former Mansfield local Marcelle Knapp, prior to the running of the Cup.

Senior racegoers are able to take advantage of discounted entry and will find plenty of shade and seating for a comfortable day on the course.

In addition to the historic grandstand and picnic tables under shady trees, a new Seniors Seating initiative has been introduced, providing chairs and tables under shade cover for patrons 65 years and over.

Race club president Leanne Backwell points out that new family friendly initiatives have been made possible through Business and Community Recovery Funding via the Mansfield Shire and Victorian State Government.

The grant has also assisted the club to provide a safe travel option of free shuttle buses from Bonnie Doon, Jamieson and Merrijig and to implement a power upgrade on the course, reducing the need for generators.

"One of the Mansfield District Racing Club's key initiatives is to provide a great picnic racing experience for all ages and the funding has helped us to improve the racecourse and the activities that enhance the day's experience," she said.

Mansfield's racing history will be another major element of the meeting.

2022 will see the 167th running of the Mansfield Cup and the 90th year it has been held at the current course.

In 1996, a huge crowd watched pony sized local horse Wee Jimmy come from last to round up the field and win the cup by a nose.

We Jimmy, owned by MDRC committee member Philip Corr, has been in retirement at Bonnie Doon for several years, but will return to the scene of his great win to lead the Mansfield Cup field on to the track.

All information on ticketing, hospitality packages, MDRC membership, fashion competition categories and race times can be found on

www.mansfieldcountry races.com.au or www.country.racing.com/mansfield.

Regular updates are also available via social media including Facebook: Mansfield District Racing Club and Instagram: @mansfieldcountryraces.