Community
5 May, 2023
Warrnambool comes alive
NOT even rain and overcast skies could dampen the spirits of racegoers at the Bool this week.
The three-day May Race Carnival once again attracted thousands trackside and organisers couldn’t be happier.
“The atmosphere has just been absolutely amazing; not even the cold, wet and windy Warrnambool weather has kept crowds away which has been great,” Warrnambool Racing Club interim CEO Carl Hufer said.
“We had just under 8000 people through the gate on the first two days and we’re expecting the same today (Thursday).
“The program has run very smoothly, which is a credit to everyone involved, and I’ve been absolutely blown away by the popularity of this year’s carnival.
We’ve seen some great racing.” Day one (Tuesday) saw the ladies dress in high fashion to enjoy the iconic ladies’ luncheon while others trackside took advantage of the on-site catering and various marquees.
The Brierly Steeplechase, over 3450m, was one of the highlights of day one. This was won by the Symon Wilde-trained ‘Britannicus’, ridden by Aaron Kurum.
Second place in the Brierly went to ‘Flying Agent’ (trained by Amy McDonald, ridden by Lee Horner), with ‘Valac’ in third (trained and ridden by Steven Pateman).
Persistent rain overnight on Tuesday saw the track rated a ‘heavy 10’ for Wednesday’s program.
Day two of the carnival featured the Sovereign Resort Galleywood Hurdle over 3200m – won by ‘Saunter Boy’ trained by Ciaron Maher and David Eustace and ridden by Steven Pateman, and the listed Midfield Group Wangoom Handicap (1200m) which was won by ‘Outlaws Revenge’ trained by Daniel Bowman, ridden by Dean Yendall.
Day three of the carnival (yesterday) featured the highly anticipated Brandt Grand Annual Steeplechase over 5500m and the Sungold Milk Warrnambool Cup over 2350m.
The results of both events – which attracted several local entries – were not yet available when the Warrnambool Weekly went to print, however Mr Hufer said early Thursday morning he was again expecting a great day’s racing.
“The grand annual is always one of the main events of the carnival and I’m sure this year will be no exception,” he said.
“The track is again rated a heavy 10 but I’m sure we’ll have another great day of racing. “The May Race Carnival really has put Warrnambool on the map and it’s something we can all be proud of.”
