First run in 2016 by the Red Dog Rugby Club, the Bathurst 10s has seen the likes of Bathurst Bulldogs’ first XV and colts battle it out against players with Sydney Grade rugby experience.

Eastern Suburbs won the first edition of the Red Dog Cup then defended its title last year with a four tries to none performance in the decider against Newcastle Sea Men.

The Beasties will be back again on October 13 as they look to continue their stranglehold on the event, but this year there will be a new prize on offer.

Red Dog Rugby Club president Mickey Palmer is pleased to announce that for the first time, there will be a women’s 10s element.

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As such, 16 teams have nominated in total – well up on the five who competed at Ashwood Park last year.

“At this stage there are six women’s teams and 10 men’s teams, so it’s a huge jump from what we had last year,” Palmer said.

“But the big thing is that we’re focusing on the women’s teams being the highlight of the day. They are going to be the last game of the day and the prize pool of the women, compared to the ratio of their entrance fee, is more than the men’s.

“The event is in its third year of combining fast-paced rugby and good old fashioned fun … teams will compete for cash prizes and also raise money for kids with cancer.”

Local hopes in the women’s draw will rest on the shoulders of Bathurst Bulldogs and CSU – the two grand finalists of this season’s Ferguson Cup.

Joining them will be Avoca Beach, Red Dog Rugby Club, Easts and Wollongong.

Both CSU and Bathurst Bulldogs have nominated to compete in the expanded men’s competition, while the Orange Blobfish will make their tournament debut.

The Beasties, Newcastle Sea Men, Newcastle Wanderers, Wollongong, Newcastle Brown Snakes, Red Dog Rugby and Sydney Harlequins make up the remainder.

For more details email Palmer at mike@reddogrugby.com.au