THE continued absence of local football and netball, plus the pandemic-weary public’s eagerness for live sport, has led to strong interest in this Saturday’s metropolitan-class race meeting at Gawler, officials say.

Up to 1000 people will be permitted entry at Gawler and Barossa Jockey Club’s nine-race meeting this Saturday, when the course is re-opened to the public for the first time since nationwide COVID-19 lockouts were enforced months ago.

Strict social-distancing measures have reduced capacity at the club’s function centre, which was booked out by members over a week ago, however some general admission tickets will be available.

Club CEO Shane Collins said response to this weekend’s meeting told a story.

“You can see by the numbers and the interest we’re getting – with people calling in or ringing to ask when they can come back – that it’s big on people’s agenda,” Collins said.

“Country football and other country sport hasn’t fully started yet. In the Barossa it doesn’t start until the 18th.

“So, although restrictions have been lowered, people still don’t have local footy or local netball to go watch or play. That means racing is certainly on the radar.”

The club’s Wolf Blass Pavilion will be open this Saturday, while its expansive grassed areas will also be available to the public. However, Mr Collins urged any potential general admission patrons to pre-book.

He said the club was fortunate another meeting had been scheduled for next Wednesday, potentially catering for the surge in interest.

Last Saturday’s Murray Bridge city-class meeting also catered for spectators, however all were restricted to the club’s indoor facilities.