McCullum special guest on big raceday

Brendan McCullum

International cricket star and Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum will be the guest of honour at the Makfi Challenge Stakes Daffodil Race Day in Hastings at the end of next week.

A Cancer Society ambassador, McCullum's availability for the August 29 opening day of Hawke's Bay Racing's rich three-day Spring Racing Carnival has come about during a rare break from international cricket.

McCullum's own business, Vermair Racing, is also sponsor of a race for which he will present the winning trophy.

Having led New Zealand to the World Cup final in March and a successful tour of England in May and June, but skipping the current tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa, he will be available to sign autographs and pose for photos with fans at the races.

He will later attend a special High Tea celebration for Cancer Society volunteers.

"These volunteers provide driving, respite sitting and fundraising services for people with cancer, their friends, families and carers," McCullum said.

"They're always there for us when we need their help, but to ensure that support continues in the future, they need ours now."

New Hawkes Bay Racing chief executive Andrew Castles said it was a day on which the entire racing community united to support the Cancer Society in its fight against the disease.

"The fact that Brendon McCullum has taken time out of his busy schedule to join this fight is an absolute thrill," he said.

McCullum will be hosted by Westbury Stud, the sponsor of the main race and where stallion Mafki stands.

Daffodil Race Day is a fundraiser for the Hawke's Bay Cancer Society and entry to the Hastings racecourse will be by donation.