Orange overload at Addington

The Orange army will be out in force at Addington on Friday night.

The stellar race night features a stacked card highlighted by three Harness Million and three Group races and it coincides with the official launch of the "Backing Blair" campaign just over three weeks before he carries home country hopes at the World Driving Championship.

Friday's launch will feature a life size cutout of Blair Orange in the fanzone at the front of Spectators and the man himself will be there after Race 5 (6.33pm) and Race 8 (8.07pm). Fans of The Postman, as he's known (because he always delivers), are encouraged to come along for photos, signings and a chat.

A line of specially-designed merchandise will be available for purchase. It includes a range of socks, beer coolers, caps, sunglasses and flags. There will be spot prizes, draws, and giveaways throughout the evening.

Fans can also leave him a personal good luck note in the Fan Mailbox. The messages will be delivered directly to him just before the WDC starts.

The WDC, featuring 10 of the globe's best drivers, will be held  at Kaikoura (November 2 and 3), Cambridge (November 5), Addington (November 7), Winton (November 9) and finally on IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup day at Addington on Tuesday, November 11.

On track Orange is in for a busy Friday night too.  He has 10 drives including Bar Louie in the $100,000 Group 1 Dakins Group 3YO Flying Stakes and Zeus Lightning in the $200,000 NZB Standardbred Harness 2YO Colts and Geldings Pace.

Event : The Backing Blair campaign launch
Where  : Spectators Front Lawn, Addington
When : From 5pm – Friday, October 10