The main attraction will be the 120m gift with $3200 in prize money.

The schedule includes a new 3200m event and the 1600m race, both with $1000 prize money on offer.

The day will include nine events.

Ararat Gift organiser Joe Perry said entries are down from the same time last year.

“Whether it is due to the rescheduling or not, I do not know but there are still plenty of high class runners coming,” he said.

“I have no doubt we will have some excellent running on the day.”

The addition of the long distance race has forced a shuffle in the order of events, with the 1600m now early in the program to give competitors a chance to rest between the two races.

Perry said the Ararat community has been very supportive in the lead-up to the annual meet.

“We have had a very good response from local business sponsors, they have been very generous,” he said.

“The Ararat Rural City Council and the groundsmen have provided plenty of support to help prepare the oval as well.

“I believe it is the best grass track to run on in the state.”

Perry said the recent rain along with sunshine later in the week should provide a good track for runners.

"This rain that has come at the right time.” he said.

“By the time Saturday comes around, the oval should be in immaculate condition for the races.”

The Ararat Gift will also provide Stawell Gift officials with a chance to go through their routine before their own event.

There will also be a big little athletics presence with many events on offer for junior athletes during the day.

Races will start at noon and go through until 5pm, with free entry for spectators.