Forecasters predict the clouds will part to reveal blue skies ahead of today’s eagerly anticipated Perth Racecourse Charities Race Day.
More than 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the Courier-sponsored event, including the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, and First Minister Alex Salmond.
It is the first royal trip to Perth races since the Queen Mother visited more than 30 years ago.
Mr Salmond, a keen follower of horse racing, has taken on the role of The Courier’s exclusive tipster for one day only.
There will be eight competitive races, with prize money in excess of £90,000 the highest in the course’s history.
A total of 54 horses are scheduled to run at the meeting, 10 of which will take part in the feature race, The Scottish Hydro Summer Champion Hurdle.
The field includes Overturn, a horse which boasts recent successes at the Chester Cup and last year’s Galway Hurdle, Northumberland Plate and Scottish Champion Hurdle.
Perth Racecourse general manager Sam Morshead said he was delighted that trainers from the length and breadth of the British Isles had entered horses.
He added that the course was in excellent condition, thanks to the continued efforts of ground staff. Organisers have hailed the event, which will raise thousands for the Prince’s charities in Scotland, as the “most exciting day” in Perth’s 400-year horse racing history.
It is also expected to bring a welcome £2 million boost to the Perthshire economy, with hotels, restaurants and retailers all expected to benefit from a surge in visitor numbers.
Tayside Police have advised travellers heading to the course near Scone to set off early, and to allow extra time for their journey.
Despite unsettled weather during the week, temperatures today are expected to reach a warm 18 degrees Celsius.
Heavy traffic is expected around the Bridgend area and also on the A93 coming from Blairgowrie. Shuttle buses will be in operation from Mill Street, Perth.
The Courier is one of the corporate sponsors, along with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Scottish Hydro.
Racing will be supplemented by a full programme of entertainment, including camel racing, a pipe and drum display from the Scots Dragoon Guards and an evening concert.