Auckland Racing Club Launches Membership Drive

Auckland Racing Club $1.5 million Upgrade Launches Membership Drive

Auckland Racing Club is kick starting a drive for new – and potentially younger – members, following completion of a $1.5million upgrade of the Club’s Ascot Stand at Ellerslie Racecourse.

Chief executive Cameron George says: “The new members area is the biggest single investment the club has made since the refurbishment of the Ellerslie Stand 10 years ago.”

“With the extensive refurbishment and new facilities, we’re aiming to attract a new breed of members, particularly younger urban professionals wanting to enjoy the excitement of thoroughbred horseracing.”

Mr George says that while Auckland Racing Club has been around for more than 150 years, he’s noticed an increase in younger people looking into club membership.

“People are attracted by both the exclusive benefits that come with club membership and the convenience of having a great place where they can host friends. Ironically, when there are so many entertainment and hospitality options available, having somewhere you can guarantee a good time every time is very appealing.”

Someone who agrees is Carena West, a fashion designer who recently showed at NZ Fashion Week. “I‘ve always been a fan of the races and love getting involved with the raceday fashion events. I joined Auckland Racing Club under the young membership programme three years ago and thoroughly enjoy all it offers.”

“With my membership I have access to the members only areas plus easy on course parking and discounts over the bar. I use my guest passes to take friends up to the member’s room, which is nice because I get to host them.”

The club currently has 1100 members, some of which have been with it for over 60 years, but an increasing number of new recruits have signed on for the Young Members Programme, open to those between 18 and 35 years.

Membership offers a multitude of benefits including reciprocal rights with a number of national and international racing clubs as well as discounts and exclusive offers on Ellerslie’s premium racedays.

For Carena West, Melbourne Cup Day at Ellerslie is one of the events she most looks forward to.

“I’ll always make it along to the Melbourne Cup Day at Ellerslie because it is the only place in Auckland I can see actual horses racing.”

During racedays all members can enjoy exclusive access to the newly refurbished Members Lounge on Level 2 of the Ascot Stand, access to the members’ carpark and discounts on premier raceday hospitality packages.

Cameron George says he is looking forward to welcoming new members to Auckland Racing Club.

“Club membership is ideal for those who like to come to a number of racedays across the season and want to be sure they get great viewing, hospitality and TAB access with all the atmosphere of the track.”

The upgrade, which began in May, was completed in time for the first raceday of the new season, Great Northern Day on Saturday 5 September. Two floors – 2nd and 5th – of the Ascot Stand have been completely refurbished and now offer a selection of four bars, 30 televisions and seating for over 450 people.

For more information on Auckland Racing Club membership and facilities please visit www.ellerslie.co.nz.

ENDS

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