Put aside Friday’s Darley Scone Cup for one minute and run an eye over Saturday’s nominations – the eight-card field boasts a ton of class from the start of the program, right through until the end.

“The nominations, especially for the second day, are exceptional,” CEO Heath Courtney said.

“We’re very, very happy.

“There are some genuine Group 1 horses among the list, including Terravista and Le Romain.

“Then, we have the likes of top trainers David Hayes (Hell Or Highwater, Pedicel, Critical Reaction) and Ciaron Maher (Villermont, Schism) nominating their gallopers, which is a big coup for Scone.

“That means we’re attracting attention in Victoria – and it’s great to grow this carnival on a national scale.

“Our local guys, such as Rod Northam, Stephen Jones and Brett Cavanough, also have legitimate chances across both days.

“That’s terrific to see, too.”

As for Friday’s racing, Courtney admits “everything’s shaping up well”.

“The weather reprieve is a welcome change – we’re likely to miss the rain altogether,” he said.

“The track looks amazing; and should be a good 4 throughout the carnival.

“So, it’s all systems go.

“Duca Valentinois (James Cummings) will return to defend its Darley Scone Cup crown.

“But, the Godolphin galloper won’t have it all his own way with Hawkesbury Gold Cup winner Kingsguard, Spectroscope and Cool Chap, which ran in the Doncaster, also in the line-up.”

Scone’s Cup Carnival offers nearly $2 million in prizemoney with two days of Fashions on the Field contests, as well as a stack of prizes up for grabs.

There are a couple of surprises in store, too.

“We have a new gourmet food precinct with a big screen that adjoins another new activation consisting of the Iron Jack Bar, a Yalumba Wine bar and gourmet cheese outlet,” Courtney said.

“I believe it will be a new-look carnival for many people.

“We’re looking forward to another strong event.”

Gates open at 11am.

Buses will run from Muswellbrook Railway, starting at 10.30am until 1.30pm, both Friday and Saturday.