IF you thought punting on the Tweed was just about boats, oars and grunting, it's time to turn your mind to that other form of punting that takes place on the Tweed. The one that happens on corners of Cane and Racecourse roads, Murwillumbah, whenever the ponies are racing.

Not that having a flutter will be the only reason to head to the races on Thursday, when the Tweed River Jockey Club hosts the Tweed District Men Of League Race Day.

Tom Cassin of the local Men Of League, told the Daily News that some of the guests expected to be at the races are among the game's all-time favourite stars, including Gary Belcher, Graham Murray, Frank Stanton, Marty Gurr, Graham Eadie, and the current Titans recruitment and development officer, Tom Searle.

The full TAB meeting will feature a total of 86 starters and emergencies lining-up for a crack at $70,000 in prize money plus BOBS breeding bonuses, spread over seven events.

Main interest will focus on the day's feature event, the Men Of League Christmas Cup, an open handicap over 1530m.

As expected, Ballina trainer Danny Bowen has accepted to race both last-start winner Haslington, the topweight, and previous on-course winner Bradfield.

Bowen told the Daily News late last week that he intended to start either one or both of his middle distance specialists in the race and has followed through, true to form.

With only six runners due to line-up after this morning's declaration of acceptances, his chances would seem statistically good. Especially, given his record for winning races at Murwillumbah, which stands second-to-none.

The Men Of League Christmas Cup is race four on Thursday's program, and due to run at 3.30 pm. The day's opener gets under way at 1.45 pm.