St Marys Cup: A race steeped in history

Nestled among the rolling hills of Tasmania’s east coast, the township of St Marys comes alive every New Year’s Day as it becomes the vibrant centre of harness racing. This is the story of the St Marys Cup—a race steeped in nearly a century of community pride and sporting tradition.

The Cup’s origins trace back to 1928, when the inaugural event thundered across a simple grass track carved into the paddocks along Harefield Road. But the town’s passion for trotting stretches even further, with informal races recorded as early as 1889—a testament to how deeply the sport is woven into local life.

Over the decades, the St Marys Cup has produced its share of legends. Speedy Ben, the crowd favourite who claimed back‑to‑back victories in 1973 and 1974, remains a cherished name. And Gorse Bush, dam of champion pacer Beautide, helped shape a lineage of greatness that still echoes through Tasmanian harness racing.

Yet what truly sets the St Marys Cup apart isn’t just its distinctive 1340‑metre grass track or the $14,000 prize purse—it’s the people. Each year, thousands flock to this small town of just 738 residents to enjoy a quintessentially Australian celebration. Bookmakers line the rails, the BBQs fire up, raffles and fashion competitions add colour, and families gather for a day that blends sport, community, and summer festivity.

Veteran race caller Colin McNiff will once again take his place in the broadcast box, binoculars in hand, ready to bring every moment to life.

The feature event, the $14,000 Eric Bean Memorial St Marys Pacing Cup, honours the extraordinary contribution of Eric Bean, who served on the club committee for 55 years between 1958 and 2012—including 52 years as Secretary. Bean was also a dedicated owner‑trainer from 1954 to 2006, preparing standout pacer Chamfers Return, winner of 12 Tasmanian races. His lifelong service earned him the Edgar Tatlow Medal in 2008 and induction into the Tasmanian Hall of Fame in 2014.

The day offers entertainment for all ages, from a hole‑in‑one golf challenge, face painting for the kids to Fashions on the Field, plus a lucky racebook prize featuring a night’s accommodation and breakfast at Country Club Tasmania.

If you’re searching for the perfect family outing to welcome the New Year, make your way to St Marys on January 1. It’s a tradition that never disappoints.

by Gary Newton