McCullum backs Daffodil Race Day

Brendon McCullum will be signing autographs and spending time with fans at a special Daffodil Race Day at Hawke's Bay Racecourse in Hastings on Saturday. Photo / File

Get up close with a Kiwi cricket star and the Cancer Society tomorrow - during the first of a three-day Bostock NZ Spring Racing Carnival.

Last year, a daffodil-shaped partnership formed between Hawke's Bay Racing and the charity, with $20,000 raised. They are aiming to get even more people through the gates this time round to blow that total out of the water.

Entry to the course is by donation to the Cancer Society - and racegoers can also give money to collectors around the course.

Organisers managed to get Daffodil Day silks on one "favourite" in each of the nine Mafki Stakes day races - if the branded jockey is first to cross the finish line, TAB will donate an extra $1000.

Marketing and events manager Greg Howie said the society's CEO was travelling from Wellington to attend a a special high tea and bubbles to celebrate all of the charity's local volunteers.

"It's something to say 'thanks' and it's nice we are in a position to do that for them."

Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum will do a question and answer session for volunteers before heading down to The Hits family area from 2.30pm for signings and fan greetings.

"We pulled a few strings and he was more than happy to show his support."

As an extra incentive there are five lots of $100 to be given away in the family area as well as plenty to keep the kids occupied - from face painting to pony rides.

"There's racing, but it's got a Daffodil Day theme - this is the day for families to get along."

Everyone will receive a daffodil pin on entry and there will be a designated wall where people can write who they are wearing it for. Gates open from 10.30am and the first race is at 12.10pm.