Australian cricket legend Shane Warne has been announced as the guest of honour at next month's Cup Day horse racing in Christchurch.
The colourful sportsman and Liz Hurley's ex, known simply as 'Warnie', is said to enjoy a flutter on the fillies.
Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup organisers saythat one of the world's greatest ever spin bowlers will "add extra value and take the glamour to another level" at Addington Raceway on November 11.
One of the highlights of the Christchurch social calendar, the event regularly attracts crowds of more than 22,000
New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club marketing manager Ged Mooar said Warne was the type of celebrity they wanted to "take day to another level".
"He is a colourful character, with a personality to fit the occasion. He loves the horses, loves a flutter with a dollar or two on them," Mr Mooar said.
"It will certainly reach out to the wider public. He's obviously well known, he has over 1.7 million followers on Twitter.
"We're rapt to have him coming over and I know he's looking forward to it as well. He knows about our event, which was great to hear."
Warne, the first bowler to capture 700 test wickets, was a dominant figure in international cricket for more than a decade and is widely regarded as the best spin bowler of all time.
Outside of the picket fence, the father-of-three continues to lead a high profile lifestyle that makes regular headlines. He tours the world as a cricket commentator and poker player, while also raising money for The Shane Warne Foundation.
"This seemed a great innovation by the club and I'm delighted to help out," Warne said in a statement.
"It's an event that has a terrific reputation this side of the Tasman and I'm very much looking forward to being part of it."
Apart Warne's guest appearance, The Christchurch Casino NZ Cup Day organisers say they will also play host to "an array of stars from the worlds of fashion and entertainment".
Reigning Cup champion Terror To Love is attempting to be the first horse to win four Christchurch Casino NZ Trotting Cups in a row.
