Flashback to 2018, and a horse that was “one step off being put down” in 2015 made winning strides at the Goulburn qualifier for the SERA Country Championships.
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Trainer Danny Williams was “speechless and stunned” as the five-year-old chestnut gelding bested the field, including stablemates Acquittal and 2017 qualifier Pumpkin Pie.
“I had too many in the race to see them all,” Williams said post-race, having entered 10.
But a week out from the Championships' grand finale at Royal Randwick, Williams had to withdraw Kopi Luwak, the equal favourite, with bruised feet and a burst abscess.
Had either Pumpkin Pie or Acquittal brought the grand prize home, the Goulburn Post had nominated the local branch of Legacy to receive a $5000 donation from the TAB.
It was not to be, but TAB did donate $500 to Goulburn Legacy, much to their gratitude.
Ride for a cure
In 2019, the opportunity for the Post to nominate a charity for that $5000 prize returns, and this year we have selected 'Ride For A Cure', the cause of Goulburn's Henry Bell.
Last year, Mr Bell and his cousins Ed, Jack and Rob Archibald endured eight days and 1000 kilometres of riding the Mongolian steppe to raise $100,000 for MS research.
His father, Robert Bell, has MS (multiple sclerosis). Supporters put up at least $170,000.
The South East Racing Association (SERA) Country Championships return to Goulburn on Saturday March 2, and again the first two horses home will race at Royal Randwick.
If either (or a third, as in 2018) wins the race, TAB will donate $5000 to Mr Bell's 'Ride For A Cure' via the Post. So long as one finishes, a $500 donation will be forthcoming.
Mr Bell was surprised and pleased to be notified of the 'Ride For A Cure' nomination.
Fashion Star
The Goulburn Post and Racing NSW are also giving racegoers a winning chance.
The best-dressed spotted trackside at Goulburn District Race Club for the March 2 race day will have a chance to feature in the newspaper's Fashion Star photo gallery.
If our readers vote your outfit as the most fashionable on the field, you will win members tickets to the Country Championships grand finale at Royal Randwick, Sydney on April 6. The prize includes overnight accommodation, and the total package is valued at $730.
Be sure to look out for the Goulburn Post roving photographer at the track on the day.
- After the races, go to goulburnpost.com.au to vote for your favourite fashions.