The 18-year-old was in the camping area of the racecourse at the Macquarie Race Meet just after 1am when he became involved in an altercation with up to six other males.

At one point during the altercation the 18-year-old man was hit in the face with what he believed was a bottle. He suffered a significant laceration to his face which required stitches. He may also require corrective plastic surgery.

The assailants fled the area before police arrival. Police have interviewed a number of witnesses and have collect some forensic evidence from the scene.

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Orana Mid-Western Police District Inspector Dan Skelly said the incident marred what was otherwise a successful, mostly uneventful Trangie Race Day.

In addition to the assault there were a number of minor scuffles and licensed premises matters.

However, the 2500-person crowd, which was mostly young people between 18 and 25-years-old, were well behaved.

“I’m generally pleased with the behaviour of the crowd that attended the races. Notwithstanding the serious assault, the crowd, mostly young men and women, behaved themselves and had a good time,” Inspector Skelly said.

“Police were on-hand to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to enjoy themselves, and also to act to stop those who sought to disrupt the day.”

Inspector Skelly said he congratulated the racecourse committee and the Trangie community who came together to make the race day a well-executed event.