Nominations for two races on Dubbo Turf Club's big Derby Day program have been extended until this morning as the club continues preparations for its biggest event of the year.
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Thousands of people are expected to flock to the track for the six-race program, which yesterday drew 90 nominations.
Only the Orana Handicap (1400m) failed to attract double figure entrants, however trainers have until 11am today to nominate for both that race and the Benchmark 55 Handicap (1000m).
"Overall the numbers are pretty strong, and that continues a pattern at Dubbo where we draw very good nominations on a consistent basis," club chairman Michael Edwards said.
"Having just six in the 1400m race is disappointing but hopefully a couple of more will nominate before the extended time and we can get a decent field for that race as well."
Saturday's meeting will be the club's first since a new board took over last month, and while the task of catering for thousands of racegoers first-up won't be easy Edwards said he is looking forward to the challenge.
"Having this meeting so soon after being elected has its obvious challenges but along with Ian Giffin and the track staff, we're all working hard to make the day a success," he said.
"Derby Day is our major fundraising meeting of the year, and we know that we will make mistakes because it is our first one, but hopefully those mistakes will be minor and we'll have an event that will entertain everyone and promote racing in Dubbo.
"We've also got our Melbourne Cup meeting coming up next week so it's a very busy period for us but it's a time of year when the turf club can shine and be a real focal point of Dubbo, whether it's for the people that like to have a bet or those looking to enjoy a good day out."
Final fields for Saturday's meeting will be released on Thursday morning, while nominations for the Melbourne Cup Day program close tomorrow.
Acceptances for that meeting will be out on Friday morning.
