Regional horses make up half of the 220 racers nominated to run the turf at the Ballina Cup this Thursday.
The record interest in the race from trainers and jockeys will ensure capacity fields in all eight races of the day, Matthew Bertram general manager of the Ballina Jockey Club said.
Prize money in 2016 has been boosted by $120,000 to a total of $280,000 throughout the day.
The extra winnings have been split across all races to help ensure the money gets spread around.
At least half of the racing horses come from the northern rivers region, with plenty of interest from Southeast Queensland trainers as well, he said.
The bigger the day the more the industry can support local jockeys, trainers and horse owners.
The top event on the Ballina Jockey Club calendar includes an afternoon of music, local food from pop-up eateries, as well as the ever-popular Fashion on the Fields.
Free buses are available to and from Ballina Racecourse, leaving from Bangalow and Byron Bay/Ocean Shores.
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