IDEAL conditions and a clear schedule away from major events ensured a large crowd attended Saturday’s Gunbower Gold Cup meet.
Around 3000 people were in attendance at the Gunbower Racecourse for the Gunbower Racing Club’s major event.
Saturday’s meet was the first event since 2014 to not clash with the AFL Grand Final and the Deni Ute Muster.
The races were also the first to be held in two years after above-average September rainfall forced the abandonment of last year’s meet.
“It has been good to make a big comeback,” racing club president, Mick Farrant said.
“Everyone had a great day. Talking to all the people in the marquees, and they were having a good time.
“The trainers and jockeys were also saying the course was in a great condition.”
There was plenty on offer for patrons apart from the on-field action, with musical performances and children’s activities ensuring all had something to do between the eight races on the card.
One of the popular events was the Fashions on the Field competition, with prizes awarded in four categories.
Johanna Tulloch of Briggolong took out Lady of the Day, with Gemma Walkington coming in runner-up in a gingham pencil skirt and playful hat.
Ms Tulloch said that she chose her outfit for its native flower design, but never expected to win.
“I was surprised. I didn’t even enter myself, my friend entered me,” she said.
Jenny Todd of Echuca won the Matron of the Day with her classic monochrome look, completed with a gorgeous hat and dash of red lipstick.
Tammy McGillivray was runner-up with a lovely white faux-lace dress.
Ms Todd said she was very humbled to have won.
She has competed in fashion events a few times but she said it had been a number of years since the last one.
Ms McGillivray said that it was a great credit to the Gunbower Cup Fashions on the Field organisers to have a mature women’s category.
