Billed as the richest raceday on the Wimmera Racing calendar, the 2009 Ararat Cup will raise funds for cancer services in Ararat and district. A proportion of all admissions to the special Colour Your Life for Cancer marquee will be set aside specifically for this purpose.

Those who attend via general admission will have the chance to make a donation to the fundraising efforts via a wishing well at the main entrance.

Around 2000 people are expected to attend this year's event on Sunday November 8.

Ararat Rural City conference and events co-ordinator Alexandra Bruty said a number of tickets would be sold for the Colour Your Life for Cancer marquee which included a guest speaker Sue Stanley, MC John McDougall and other entertainment.

``So many of us in the Ararat region have been touched in some way by cancer, and this is a terrific way to raise funds for a very serious and important cause while having a great day out with friends and family,'' Ms Bruty said.

Wimmera Racing Club racing and events co-ordinator Penny Penfold said the Pollyanne's/Bailey's on Barkly Fashions on the Field would provide a fantastic opportunity for locals to dress up for the day.

Ms Penfold said categories included Little Miss and Mister, Miss Teen Fashion and Lady of the Day. Other trackside entertainment will include a children's jumping castle and live music from local duo, Soft.

Major races of the day are the NMIT Ararat Gold Cup, with its $50,000 prize tag, and the $60,000 Luxbet China Bowl. The Ararat Cup Day also hosts the final in the Golden Grain Series.

Tickets for the 2009 Ararat Cup are available via Wimmera Racing and tickets for the Colour Your Life for Cancer marquee can be purchased at the Ararat and Grampians Information Centre and Wimmera Racing.