From The Track - Autumn 2017 by Ian Davies

RRP $6.95

AUTUMN 2017

Your Local Racing Magazin e!

RIGHT ON COURSE NEW TRACK READY

GREG MILES A CHAMPION

RETIRES A LEGEND

FROM THE TRACK

O MERCEDES-BENZ NEWCASTLE

AUTUMN RACING CARNIVAL 11 - 29 MARCH

UT with the old and in with the new! Barrier trials, track gallops and even a few races have set the scene. The latest prized piece of Australian racing’s real estate is ready to go.

Broadmeadow’s swank new course proper will host its first full meeting when the Group 3 Newcastle Newmarket highlights the Friday, March 17 program.

GREG MILES – A Champion Retires A Legend

JOSH PARR – One of Sydney’s “Hip” Jockeys

The multi-million dollar project is done, and NEWCASTLE JOCKEY CLUB now has two splendid racing surfaces – the course proper and the Beaumont (inside) track.

JOHN McDERMOTT – Voice of Hunter Greyhound Racing

NEWCASTLE – Broadmeadow’s New Course Proper

The latter has done a splendid job standing up to a heavy schedule, enabling race meetings to continue whilst the old course proper was dug up and replaced with a state of the art Strathayr surface.

WYONG – Magic Millions Review

The proof is already in the pudding. There have been nothing but outstanding reports from jockeys and trainers about the new track, which is undoubtedly a showpiece.

GOSFORD – Keen To Reinvigorate Cup Day

SCONE – Honouring Its Late Chairman

JOE O’NEILL – Prime Example of Success

Newcastle’s Group 3 Spring Stakes (1600m) was run at Randwick on February 13 as it could not be held at home because of the track renovations. How fitting it was won by a local; Kris Lees emulating his late father Max (Coronation Day, 1992) by scoring with Invincible Gem, only the third filly (after Lotteria, 2004 and Lovemelikearock, 2009) to snare the feature event for three-year-olds.

HAWKESBURY – 12th Saturday Stand Alone

HAWKESBURY TWINS – Seeing Double

MUSWELLBROOK – Building New Cup Date

NEWCASTLE HOBBY BREEDERS - Flemington Success

ON THE PACE – Huge Response to Saturday Meets

55 Seconds with GARRY McQUILLAN

TOPBETTA – Introducing Global Tote

As we welcome you to our first edition of 2017, we are also pleased to advise that the NJC has joined forces with FROM THE TRACK. The club’s members’ newsletter (Inside Running) will be published three times a year in the centre of our magazine. FROM THE TRACK continues to be accessible on line. All you have to do is log on at www.fromthetrack.com.au, then click on the front cover and enjoy reading a variety of stories. All racing fans have listened to GREG MILES’ broadcasts over the years, and we were delighted to have a lengthy chat with him to trace his marvellous career on the eve of his retirement. A record 36 Melbourne Cup calls is testament to both his wonderful ability and endurance, especially since the ever advancing technology of race telecasts has put so much extra pressure on our racecallers.

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And what about young Broadmeadow trainer Ben Smith, who has won four Sydney races – including a Group 2 double – in a row with his underrated filly In Her Time. Well done Ben.

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Australian callers are the best in the world by a country mile, and we should embrace them for the accuracy and colour they bring to racecourses and into our homes, pubs and clubs. None better than Greg (pictured), a champion who retires a legend. JOHN McDERMOTT also is in the twilight of a long and successful career. “Macca” is the voice of greyhound racing in the Hunter and on the Central Coast and gave us an insight into how he got started after earlier working as a “postie”. The popular broadcaster continues to deliver. This has been a watershed year for JOSH PARR, who has overcome a debilitating hip condition to set up a great season and establish himself in the top bracket of Sydney jockeys. Muswellbrook, Wyong and Gosford have conducted successful feature meetings, whilst Newcastle, Hawkesbury and Scone are about to stage big days. Muswellbrook shifted its Cup away from the traditional Melbourne Cup date, and was very happy with the first running on a Friday in late November.

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Wyong conducted another successful Magic Millions fixture in December, whilst Gosford is keen to reinvigorate its Cup meeting to avoid being impacted by the Gold Coast’s $10m Magic Millions raceday and associated yearling sales.

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Newcastle’s Newmarket meeting is on March 17, whilst new chief executives GREG RUDOLPH (Hawkesbury) and HEATH COURTNEY (Scone) will run their first stand-alone days in April and May respectively. On Scone, we sadly record the passing of club chairman Noel Leckie in January and extend our deepest sympathies to his family. Well-known syndicator JOE O’NEILL has stood the test of time with his Prime Thoroughbreds business and tells us how he has remained at the top. His horses have won more than 600 races, including the $101 upset by Flying Jess in the $2m Magic Millions Guineas in January. It was every hobby breeders’ dream! Newcastle’s PETER ROBINSON and his father-in-law JACK STOTT and their respective wives JEN and JEAN won their first race at Flemington during the Melbourne Cup carnival with Aspect, a youngster they bred from their mare Innishbeg. We also had an interesting chat with identical twins LEA PORTEOUS and JO PRICE, who between them have more than two decades’ experience in Hawkesbury Race Club’s admin office. Newcastle Harness Racing Club boss TONY DREW tells us that a regular return to Saturday nights at The Paceway has drawn an outstanding response from trainers (40 horses had to be balloted out at a recent meeting). Our “55 Seconds With” feature focuses on Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club president GARRY McQUILLAN, who has done an outstanding job building his club’s profile. In thanking both our fantastic sponsors for their continuing support and also that of our readers, we trust you enjoy our opening edition of 2017. Happy racing and many winners! - EDITOR

Front cover: Aerial shot of the new grass tracks at Broadmeadow Disclaimer: All Rights Reserved This publication may not, in part or whole, be copied, photographed, scanned or reproduced in any format, electronic or otherwise for reproduction without written authority of From the Track. While we exercise due care and diligence to ensure the contents are accurate we do not take responsibility for any inaccuracies. Contents of the advertisements are the responsibility of the advertisers. The Publishers liability for damages resulting from any omissions, error or misprint is limited to the exact amount actually received in payment for the advertisement.

FROM THE TRACK

GREG

MILES A LEGEND WHO HAS SAVOURED THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

E called it his “cocoon of concentration”. Absolutely no one was permitted to penetrate his world during that time – and yet many parts of the world have listened to his every word around 3pm on the first Tuesday each November.

“It’s been the most important three and a half minutes of my year,” says GREG MILES, the man who has called more Melbourne Cups than anyone else. “I had to focus solely on the race. You can’t allow anything to break your concentration. “Make a mistake and everyone knows it.” Miles late last year announced he was calling time on an outstanding broadcasting career which has rightfully seen him acknowledged as one of our best racecallers ever.

and New Zealanders and, in more recent years, many parts of the world as it became a global race,” he said. “The last 15 seconds of the call are vital. For many of the listeners, that’s the only time they take real notice because they want to know which horse wins.”

and wanted me to go in and sign it. “They were so very supportive. I ended up working for them for nearly two decades, and can’t thank them enough.” Miles knew before Almandin edged out Heartbreak City at the end of the famous Flemington two-miler last November that it would be the final page in his Melbourne Cup book.

It’s such an honour to have been entrusted with bringing the Melbourne Cup to Australians and New Zealanders and, in more recent years, many parts of the world as it became a global race

He will hang up his binoculars sometime in the next few months, and graciously allowed FROM THE TRACK a lengthy interview to refl ect on his near four decades behind the microphone. No doubt, it will amaze many to learn that Miles’ first job was selling perfume at the Myer department store in Melbourne’s CBD. But it was important. He did it to help defray the cost of attending a nearby radio school. “I wasn’t there for long,” he said. “Radio was what I wanted to do; there was something magical about it. I used to lay in bed and listen to the radio under my pillow.” Miles’ rousing description of Almandin and Heartbreak City slugging it out the last 200m of last November’s Melbourne Cup was his 36th and final call of the 156th running of Australia’s iconic thoroughbred event. “It’s such an honour to have been entrusted with bringing the Melbourne Cup to Australians

Amazingly, Miles’ lengthy and much valued contribution to the racing industry could easily have been over almost before it got off the ground. By his own admission, his first Melbourne Cup call way back in 1981 “wasn’t a good one”. Thankfully, his then employer, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), stuck solid – and put him on the path to broadcasting greatness. Miles, 57, recalled the first time he broadcast Australasia’s great race, won that year by the Tommy Smith-trained Just A Dash. “To be honest, that call was one of the lower moments of my career,” he said, candidly. “It was fairly ordinary. I had just turned 22 years of age at the time, and didn’t have a contract. “I was feeling pretty low the next day when the ABC called and said they were offering me a contract

An extended overseas break last winter with wife Alison convinced him that the timing was right to pull up stumps. “It was something I had been thinking about for years,” he said. “I wanted to be sure I didn’t go on too long.

“Perhaps I may be retiring two years early, but it’s a better option than two years too late. “Because I started so early, I guess I’ve got more laps on the odometer than most, and I’m really comfortable with my decision.” Miles told former Racing Victoria CEO Bernard Saundry of his decision not to renew his contract at the end of this financial year, but didn’t want an announcement made public until the Melbourne spring carnival was over. Vintage Crop (1993) and Media Puzzle (2002) are two of the more memorable of Miles’ 36 Cup descriptions. “I knew the Melbourne Cup had changed forever when Vintage Crop won,” he said. “He was the first international horse outside New Zealand to win the Cup.

FROM THE TRACK “And who will ever forget Media Puzzle’s year? Damien Oliver’s brother Jason had tragically lost his life from a barrier trial accident in Western Australia the previous week. “I was doing the public address on course then and welcomed Damien and Media Puzzle back to the enclosure.” Miles recalls there wasn’t a dry eye at Flemington that day. “Grown men were crying. I had a lump in my throat. I wondered how I was ever going to get through it.”

I BEGAN TO MARVEL AT THE CALLERS. ONCE I STARTED GOING TO THE RACES, THAT SEALED IT. I WANTED TO DO THE SAME.

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All the while, he kept letting the “powers that be” know that he wanted to be a full-time race caller. That became a reality in mid-1981 when Joe Brown retired and “able deputy” Frank O’Brien didn’t want to take over as he had a permanent job elsewhere. “The ABC had wanted to expand, and I was reading news stories at the time,” Miles said. “I couldn’t believe it when I got the job.” Miles won’t have any trouble putting his spare time into action once he retires. He says he might starting hitting a golf ball again on a regular basis, and has become a very keen “boatie” (pictured, page 5). Planning well ahead for retirement, he joined his local boat club and bought a 40ft diesel power cruiser when he turned 50 (pictured left).

“Beforehand, I knew I had to come up with something special if she was to win, but hadn’t really thought a lot about it until I was part of a Melbourne radio show the afternoon prior to the Cup,” Miles said.

Miles also will still go to the races, though not necessarily on a regular basis.

“Bruce McAvaney told the panel and the audience that he was certain I had something prepared similar to when he called Cathy Freeman winning the women’s athletics 400m gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. “I thought: ‘Bloody hell. I need to get cracking. I sat down that night and figured that Makybe Diva, already a champion, would indeed become a legend if she did what no other horse had by winning her third Melbourne Cup.’” Connections immediately retired the champion mare, and Miles rated it “one of the great moments in Australian racing”.

“Makybe Diva was a seven-year-old mare who went out at the peak of her powers. There was no doubt she was far better than in her previous two wins. She had also won the Memsie Stakes (1400m) first-up, along with the Turnbull Stakes (2000m) at Flemington and Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley that preparation.” Miles was born at Williamstown Hospital in Melbourne in 1959, and always wanted to be involved in radio; though not initially race calling. His interest in racing was first triggered by his father wagering a four-place card with an SP bookie on Saturday afternoons, and the pair would listen to the races on the radio. “I began to marvel at the callers. Once I started going to the races, that sealed it. I wanted to do the same.

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Miles began his career with the ABC in 1979 delivering in-house mail and then as a clerk in the personnel department, whilst getting occasional opportunities to call country race meetings.

“It’s great,” he said. “Both Alison and myself will get a lot more time soon to spend on the boat. Alison is really enamored with the whole thing, especially looking after the boat, and we’ve made a lot of great friends at the club.”

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very good friends. He was like a godfather to me and was a golden man.”

Of course, his fitting description of “a champion becomes a legend” when Makybe Diva won an historic third consecutive Melbourne Cup in 2005 is now firmly part of Australian sporting folklore.

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Miles could not have had three better men from which to pursue his ambition. The callers of that era were household names; Bert Bryant (3UZ), Bill Collins (3DB) and Joe Brown (ABC). He was to succeed the latter. “Bert had so much flair, and was unique. I knew I could never follow him. “Bill was such a professional; so cool. When I started practising calls, there wasn’t a spare box at Sandown and he invited me in to listen in his box. “Everybody loved listening to Joe; he had a wonderful voice. We became

“I’ll look forward to attending the bigger meetings and enjoying the social side, which will be a nice change,” he said. And so the remarkable career of Greg Miles is nearly over. Thankfully for Australian racing fans, he did not continue to sell perfume at Myer. Otherwise, this champion racecaller who retires a legend in his own right might not have savoured such a sweet smell of success.

HOOFNOTE: Though retiring from calling, Miles will not be quitting the industry. He will continue to work for Racing Victoria’s TV station RACING.COM, undertaking feature documentary work, and assisting the panel selected to choose his successor.

FROM THE TRACK “He had the choice of both horses in the Champagne, and decided to stay with Divorces (who finished third to Skilled). “Winning my first Group 1 was fantastic. The adrenalin was fl owing and the excitement was something else. A jockey has to win a Group 1 to fully understand what the feeling is like.” Randwick and one of his former bosses, Gai Waterhouse, provided Parr with his second Group 1 success in the spring of 2014. He won the Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) on $16 chance Hampton Court, who beat the then filly First Seal and Newcastle Spring Stakes winner Sweynesse.

JOSH PARR DEFINITELY NOW ONE OF

“I was freelancing at the time, and had been doing a little bit of riding again for Gai. Josh Parr with daughter Bonnie

HERE are few more positive people in racing than JOSH PARR. Always effervescent and polite, he is one of the industry’s best advertisements. But even his wonderful outlook was challenged a year or so ago when his riding career was in real jeopardy because of a chronic right hip condition.

So much so that he put a hold on that career for several months as he awaited a vital operation in the hope of making a successful return to the saddle. “The pain kept getting progressively worse whenever I rode a horse,” Parr told FROM THE TRACK. “It got to the point where it became unbearable and I stopped riding in December, 2015. “The ironic part was that when I walked down the street, there was no problem. I was fine. “People who didn’t know the pain I was going through when I was on a horse must have thought to themselves: ‘What’s this bloke up to?’ “It was a slow process waiting for the operation. Everything had to go through RacingNSW, but there was nothing I could do about it.” It wasn’t until March 19 last year that Parr became the first New South Wales jockey to undergo surgery for what is known as a “hip impingement” (well-known Melbourne jockeys Nick Hall and Mark Zahra have also undergone similar surgery).

Benchmark 65 Handicap (1000m) at his very first ride. And he hasn’t looked back, with the winners continuing to flow. Parr says he was destined to become a jockey, following in the footsteps of his popular father Steve, who still holds a licence and is part of the furniture at Gosford, where he has been a regular trackwork rider for many a year. “I’ve got three sisters - Jayde (who is married to fellow jockey Tim Clark) and Emma are older, and Sarah is younger and I was never going to do anything else once I was old enough to realise what the caper was all about,” he said.” Parr grew up on the Central Coast and began his apprenticeship with Gosford trainer Kylie Gavenlock. He had his first ride at Hawkesbury on December 4, 2003 and finished second on his master’s grey mare Azaamsal, a $41 shot.

“The femur bone had come in contact with the pelvic bone and destroyed the cartilage in between,” Parr explained.

“I remember it as though it was yesterday,” Parr said. “Zac Purton (who rode a Group 1 double at Hong Kong’s International meeting at Sha Tin in December) rode the winner Pardon Dancer.”

“I had the operation at HSS (Hospital for Specialist Surgery) at Bella Vista in Sydney, and they did a terrific job.

But Parr took “ages” to break into the winning list. “It drove me insane; I had something like 58-60 rides before I won my first race.”

“They reshaped the femur bone and took something off the outside of the pelvic bone to give me some flexibility when I crouch.”

That was on another Gosford trainer Fred Cowell’s Pelennor Fields in a 900m Maiden at Broadmeadow on June 12, 2004.

Parr completed a successful rehabilitation process following the surgery and returned to race riding on July 28 at Gosford with a bang.

Parr spent the first two years of his apprenticeship with Gavenlock, and then joined racing’s first lady Gai Waterhouse at Randwick, where his fledgling career blossomed.

He could not have wished for a better comeback, scoring on Wyong mare Alaskan Wolf in a

“Gai gave me plenty of opportunities, and I had a

whole heap of success,” he said.

“Fortunately, she booked me to ride the horse in the Spring Champion Stakes.” Parr and his wife Amanda live at Point Clare on the Central Coast, and both will look back on March last year as being a major turning point in their lives. Not only did Parr undergo a successful operation to remedy his hip impingement and save his riding career, but their beautiful daughter Bonnie (pictured with Josh) was born 10 days later. “She is a little ray of sunshine,” was how a clearly proud Dad described the couple’s very welcome

With his career back in full swing, 30-year-old Parr has made every post a winner this season, and extended the list of trainers he rides for. He says the extended period out of the saddle both before and after his operation and the booking of a new manager, John Walter, has put him firmly on the right path. “Jockeys don’t always get to spend a lot of valuable time with their family when they’re in full swing, and I was able to put that spare time to good use with Amanda and Bonnie.

Not one to exaggerate, Parr is adamant he is riding “100 yards better than 18 months ago and 200 yards better than five years ago”.

WINNING MY FIRST GROUP 1 WAS FANTASTIC. THE ADRENALIN WAS FLOWING AND THE EXCITEMENT WAS SOMETHING ELSE

“I felt rejuvenated when I came back, and winning at my first ride really got me going.”

When this issue went to press, he was third in the NSW premiership and in the “Top 6” in the Sydney premiership.

Parr said he rang Gold Coast-based Walter, a successful professional punter, to seek him out about managing his rides.

Parr’s goal is to win a Golden Slipper Stakes, and he is passionate about Australian racing.

“I had been introduced to him by a mutual friend 12 months earlier and knew of his racing knowledge and ability to read a race. Importantly, he also has a great manner when he speaks with trainers. “John had never managed a jockey before but had thought about it. I asked him to come down for some lunch, and knew straight away as soon as we got chatting that he was the right person for me.

“The prizemoney is incredible, and the industry particularly in New South Wales is in a terrific state. “When I came back, I decided to work hard with a new manager and make a determined effort to broaden my contact list, rather than ride for a few trainers only. “Everything’s going great this season, and I’ve got my heart set on continuing to do really well.

“There’s no doubt he has played a major part in the success I have been having this season.”

“I want to keep riding winners, and finish somewhere near the top of the Sydney premiership.”

Thought keeping his weight in check has always been an issue, Parr says he is handling that much better now with maturity, being more level-headed.

With that problem hip now a thing of the past, there should be no impingement to him doing just that!

“There was one season where Tye Angland, Tim (Clark) and myself had a great battle. “Tye pipped me by a few winners (68 to 64) for the Sydney apprentices’ premiership. “It was such a good year that we finished third, fourth and fifth in the jockeys’ premiership. But once I lost my 3kg and then 2kg claim, the opportunities began to dry up a bit.”

Spelling and Agistment Farm

It was around the time that Peter Snowden stepped in to replace John Hawkes as head trainer at Crown Lodge (later Darley and now Godolphin). Never backward, Parr got on the front foot. He contacted Snowden, who didn’t have an apprentice at the time, and arranged to have the final six months of his apprenticeship transferred to him.

140 YEARS OF TRUST

“Peter is a great guy and was very good to me. When Crown Lodge was sold to Darley, Peter stayed on and Kerrin McEvoy, who had international experience behind him, was appointed as the stable’s retained rider.

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“It worked well. I floated along picking up the second stringers and rode about 200 winners for the Darley operation.” It was indeed a “second stringer” which provided Parr with his first success at racing’s elite level – on Skilled in the 2010 Group 1 Champagne Stakes at Randwick. “I had ridden Skilled a fortnight earlier when he ran second to Yosai (Michelle Payne) in the Sires Produce Stakes (also Group 1) at Randwick,” Parr recalled. “Kerrin rode Divorces that day and she also did well to finish fifth from an awkward barrier.

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SYDNEY’S “HIP” JOCKEYS

“Hampton Court had run fourth to Sweynesse in the Spring Stakes, and then Joao Moreira came out and won the Dulcify Quality (1600m) at Randwick on him a couple of weeks later,” Parr said.

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Tragedy struck the family in 2004 when they lost their eldest daughter Leanne from an insidious melanoma. The couple was overwhelmed by the huge attendance at her funeral service at Beresfield Crematorium.

JOHN

MCDERMOTT POPULAR BROADCASTER CONTINUES

TO DELIVER

T seems JOHN McDERMOTT has made a habit of “delivering”. Affectionately known as “Macca”, the popular greyhound caller spent his early working days, firstly delivering telegrams and then later bread to Newcastle residents.

But for the last four decades and more, he has delivered first-class race calls into the lounge rooms, pubs and clubs of Australian punters.

He remembers going to Singleton greyhounds on one eerie occasion when the 10-race program proceeded without a race caller.

Widely respected and acknowledged as the voice of greyhound racing in the Hunter and on the Central Coast, McDermott took time out to reflect on the longevity of a career which has endeared him to a legion of fans.

“I knew I could do it, but was a bit shy,” he said.

No one ever has a harsh word to say about “Macca”, such is his popularity and standing in the broadcasting and greyhound industries; both of which have been his passion for many a year. That is clearly reflected in the naming of a race after him at The Gardens. “The Macca” was inaugurated a few years ago to acknowledge his contribution to greyhound racing and is run annually for sprinters as a consolation to the “Black Top” feature. Understandably, he felt honoured when it was introduced. “It was nice to have a race named after you whilst you’re still alive,” the ever modest McDermott said. A proud Novocastrian through and through, McDermott was born in 1944 at a “little private hospital” (which is no longer there) in the suburb of Hamilton. His family moved to Merewether West when he was nine years of age, but there was absolutely nothing in his pedigree to suggest he would one day embark on such a successful racecalling career. “Mum and Dad weren’t interested in racing,” he told FROM THE TRACK. “But I began to visit Ted and Elsie Clifford’s Nell Gwynn cake shop in Adamstown, and they raced dogs. “That’s how greyhound racing started to catch my attention.” McDermott attended Marist Brothers at Hamilton – then an all boys’ school (now co-ed) – and left when he was 14 years and 10 months. “Mum said at the end of that school term that if I got a job, I wouldn’t have to go back the next year,” he recalled. “I made sure I got a job; I didn’t fancy going back to school. I started at the post office at Adamstown delivering telegrams. “Well-known Newcastle real estate agent Gary Dowling was working there at the counter at the time.” A youthful McDermott progressed to becoming a “postie” delivering mail before switching “gait” and working for the bakehouse at Adamstown. “They were horse and cart days and I delivered bread five days a week for about 10 years.” McDermott’s racecalling skills were being honed at the same time.

“Eventually, the late Barry Garraty, invited me to come and call a race. “Barry gave it away not long afterwards, and I took over as the on-course broadcaster. It was in 1963.” With valuable assistance from former long-time Newcastle Herald scribe Terry Radley (featured in the previous edition of FROM THE TRACK), McDermott got a real break with the advent of the NSW TAB in 1964, the same year Dawn Fraser won her third 100m freestyle gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

“I had just given correct weight for the second last race when a gust of wind blew shut the door of my broadcasting box, and dislodged the TV monitor which fell on my head,” he explained.

“Brihuego was part-owned by John Tapp, who had previously come up to the broadcasting box at Wyong to tell me the horse’s correct pronounciation.”

“The great rugby league caller Ray Warren was also broadcasting the races next door to me that day and sang out to ‘get a doctor quick’.

So too is “Macca” extremely proud of two of his proteges, Greg Radley (Sky Racing’s No 1 presenter) and Tim Newbold (who took over from Paul Ambrosoli as Sydney greyhound racing caller).

“Somehow, I managed to call the last race, but the doctor wouldn’t let me drive home. I had concussion for a couple of weeks. “My wife Sue answered the phone the next morning and it was Ray. He said: ‘Is that Mrs Picture Tube.’” There was also another occasion at Broadmeadow when Warren was again calling in the next box, and mentioned to McDermott that the window was a “bit dirty”. “I leant over to wipe the window, and the bench on which I had my gear and binoculars collapsed and I crashed to the floor. There was blood everywhere. ‘Rabs’ thought I had fallen out the window.” In true broadcasting style, the show went on. McDermott called the last race under difficulties before limping back to the sanctity of his home. McDermott is proud of twice winning a TAB special award for the “best call”, the first for his description of Brihuego’s 1992 Cameron Handicap at Broadmeadow.

“Greg was only nine months old when his parents Terry and Anne brought him to our wedding,” McDermott said. “He started going to the races with me as he got older, and it’s terrific to see just how far he has progressed. “Tim wrote to me when he was 17 years of age. I had never met him, but was very impressed with his letter and invited him to come and start practising his calls. “He said to me one day that he sounded so young when he replayed one of his calls. I told him it was because he was young. “As with Greg, his progression to take over from such an icon as Paul (Ambrosoli) is so gratifying.” McDermott and wife Sue are steeped in greyhound tradition. Sue has held a licence – and trained successfully – since 1982, and John took out a handler’s licence a few years ago to help out when required.

On a much happier note, there was great joy late last year when youngest daughter Kylie married Daniel Smith (pictured) in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at picturesque Newcastle Wetlands. McDermott admits being shattered when news broke last year of the NSW Government’s initial decision to ban greyhound racing halfway through this year. “I was devastated,” he said. “It was a terrible thing to happen because it was going to affect the lives of so many people involved in the industry.” McDermott, who chalked up 73 years on this earth last month, maintains a busy schedule, calling four meetings a week (Gosford on Tuesday nights, Thursday twilights at Maitland and The Gardens on Fridays and Saturdays). Understandably, he also had a very personal reason for wanting the ban overturned – which, of course, occurred thankfully some months later after it was first announced. “I don’t know how much longer I will keep calling, but I would have been filthy had I been forced out under those terms,” he said. “I want to retire under my own steam.” Given his outstanding contribution to both broadcasting generally and the greyhound industry especially, that’s the very least John McDermott deserves.

DARLEY SCONE CUP CARNIVAL

“Ray Barry, Terry Ryan and myself were invited to do a practice tape, each calling a race when the trots were run on the old Newcastle Showgrounds track,” McDermott said. Whilst McDermott wasn’t overly fussed about becoming a full-time harness racing caller – although he was called up by then 2GB’s Garth Cary to do a meeting at Harold Park when another legendary broadcaster John Tapp took ill – he apparently went “pretty well” that night. “Terry gave me a good recommendation to local radio station 2HD, and when the TAB started, I was asked to call the daily double races at Maitland greyhounds on Wednesday nights.” McDermott cemented a permanent spot in 1974 calling both gallops and greyhounds when 2GB Macquarie ended its racing coverage, and 2KY (now Sky Sports Radio) took over the mantle as Australia’s racing broadcaster. “Ian Craig was the Sydney caller, Clem Dimsey looked after Melbourne and Vince Curry called Brisbane races,” McDermott explained.

AUSTRALIA’S RICHEST COUNTRY RACE CARNIVAL

“2KY expanded its coverage to Newcastle races to include my calls, and I replaced the late Billy Hill upon his retirement as the on-course caller also at Broadmeadow. I did that for 24 years.” McDermott admits to hearing of Hill’s death on the day of the 1978 Wyong Cup as being one of his toughest days in the broadcasting box. “It was terrible news. Billy was, of course, a great greyhound and race caller and I wasn’t aware of his passing until just before the Cup, and had to make an announcement on course. “However, I didn’t know until the following morning on the second day of the Wyong carnival when I read in the Sydney Telegraph that he had taken his own life.” It was also whilst calling at Wyong in the 1980s that McDermott was involved in a bizarre accident, which he now laughs about although it could have had serious consequences.

Day 1 – Friday 12 May – Darley Scone Cup Race Day © Photography by Tanya D’Herville Photography

Prizemoney (AUD) Maiden Handicap 1000m $ 40,000 Maiden Plate 1300m $ 40,000 Class 1 Handicap 1600m $ 40,000 Class 1 Handicap 1100m $ 40,000 Class 2 Handicap 1300m $ 40,000 The Noel Leckie Country Cup – Benchmark 85 Handicap 1400m $ 60,000 Inglis 2YO Challenge 1100m $ 100,000 Darley Scone Cup Open Quality 1600m (Listed) $ 200,000

Day 2 – Saturday 13 May – Inglis Guineas/Emirates Park Dark Jewel Race Day Prizemoney (AUD) Benchmark 78 Handicap 2200m $ 100,000 Benchmark 78 Handicap 1100m $ 100,000 Woodlands Stakes 1100m (Listed) (2YO Fillies) $ 140,000 Denise’s Joy Stakes 1100m (Listed) (3YO Fillies) $ 140,000 Luskin Star Stakes 1300m (Listed) $ 140,000 Emirates Park Dark Jewel Classic Open 1400m (Gr3) (Fillies/Mares) $ 200,000 Inglis 3YO Guineas 1400m (R Listed) $ 400,000 Ortensia Stakes 1100m (Listed) $ 140,000

Marquee packages are available with limited places, book early! PLUS fantastic prizes are again on offer for Fashions on the Field.

434 Bunnan Road Scone NSW • Telephone: +61 2 6545 1607 events@sconeraceclub.com.au • sconeraceclub.com.au

FROM THE TRACK Park (huge drainage project) and Mackay’s Ooralea (rebuilding the course proper with a similar profile to what is now in place at Broadmeadow) enhanced his racecourse management repertoire, and lured him to Newcastle to take charge of this big project. And it will be his last.

NJC boss Matt Benson says his club is being “paid back in spades” for not rushing to race on the new course proper. “It was absolutely the correct decision not to start racing six months ago,” Benson said. “The extra time has done the track the world of good, and now it is ready to go.

“There’ll be no more moves to other race clubs,” Birch confided. “We’ve got some property on the Sunshine Coast and that’s where Sandra and myself will head when I do pull up stumps here.”

“If you look to go too early with a new track such as this, it can cost you dearly if things aren’t right. “And you cannot afford to lose the participants and punters’ confidence. I can say that the support from everyone in the industry to our approach has been outstanding.

BIRCH A

“No pressure has been brought to bear on the club at any time to do something earlier.” The entire project to repair the Pro-Ride (synthetic) track, replace the inside grass with the Beaumont track and then rebuild Broadmeadow’s course proper has cost more than $13m.

PROUD MAN

“Racing NSW funded $11.2m, and the NJC has put in another $2 to $2.5m for extras such as stewards’ towers, railing, reticulation and internal fencing,” Benson explained.

TO SEE NEW TRACK UP AND RUNNING

Distances on the new course proper will range from 900m to 3200m, and old track and class records will have to be abolished. “We need to clean the slate,” Benson said. “Comparing the old track with the new track is not comparing apples with apples.

T’S the newest piece of Australian racing’s real estate – and it’s ready to rumble!

“It’s a different surface altogether and no reverse camber.”

And there will be no prouder person than Newcastle Jockey Club’s Racecourse Operations Manager Peter Birch when Broadmeadow’s spanking course proper conducts its first official meeting on Friday, March 17.

. The new course proper will be officially launched by RacingNSW CEO Peter V’Landys and NJC chairman Geoff Barnett at a special industry function on Thursday, March 9.

The historic eight-race program will be spearheaded by the $150,000 Group 3 Newcastle Newmarket (1400m), the club’s premier autumn sprint.

A couple of leading trainer Kris Lees’ top horses will gallop between races at the race meeting two days later and then the first entire race meeting will be staged on Friday, March 17.

A number of barrier trials were conducted on the course proper on January 25, and then four races were held there as part of the Tuesday, February 7 meeting. On both occasions, there was nothing but positive feedback. Sydney premiership pacesetters Chris Waller and Brenton Avdulla combined to win the first race on the new track with Destination Tucson (pictured above and at right). Waller won three of the four races conducted, and Avdulla rode two of them. The proof for Broadmeadow’s spacious new surface (2016m in circumference and 25m wide) was in the pudding at the January 25 session. In spite of 32mm of overnight rain, the first four trials were conducted on a “Good 4” surface on the course proper, whereas the remaining trials on the Beaumont (inside) track were run with a “Heavy 8” rating. None of which surprised Birch, who is in his fifth year at the NJC, and has overseen the transformation of both tracks (Beaumont and Broadmeadow) from start to finish. The massive project was principally funded by RacingNSW, and began with the construction of the Beaumont track to replace the old inside grass circuit, which was used for trackwork. Once that was established, racing then began there whilst the course proper was dug up and fully replaced. This began not long after the 2015 September spring carnival (last year’s carnival being conducted on the Beaumont track). Birch, who came to Newcastle in 2012 after managing racecourses at Toowoomba, the Sunshine Coast and Mackay, says this has undoubtedly been his biggest challenge.

“Of course I will be extremely proud to see the new course proper up and running,” he told FROM THE TRACK.

Whilst that was in the original plan, Birch has been instrumental in getting another important asset added.

“It has been a terrific team effort from all involved; the Board, management and staff along with trainers and contractors. Everyone has to be congratulated.

“We are in the process of also harnessing rain water from our roofing area, which is pretty sizeable,” he said.

“I especially want to pay tribute to our trainers and their staff, who all have been very understanding for a long period.

Whilst Birch is excited about the course proper’s future, he is also lavish in his praise of how the Beaumont track has performed.

“ T h ey h ave h ad to pu t u p w i th so mu c h inconvenience for so long, and there hasn’t been one complaint.

“It has had a heavy workload, and has done a tremendous job,” he said. “We have lost only one meeting (the Newmarket fixture 12 months ago), and that was through circumstances outside our control.”

“Our contractors have been very flexible and done a super job. They couldn’t start work until 8 am after morning trackwork had finished, and often were still going at 10 o’clock at night.” Birch has no doubts the new Broadmeadow course proper, which boasts a similar Strathayr profile to Melbourne’s Moonee Valley racetrack, will be an industry showpiece. “It will be an outstanding track,” he said. “And, like all new surfaces, it will continue to get better with racing. “We haven’t rushed into racing on it. The reverse camber on the old track has been totally eradicated and the new track now has cross (herringbone) drainage, which will play an important part in periods of wet weather.” Because of its profile, the course proper will take plenty of watering. Importantly, irrigation and rainfall won’t be lost either. “The bottom end of the track goes straight into the dam in the centre and the top end goes firstly into a settling pond and then into the dam,” Birch explained.

Wagga-born Birch began his racing involvement as an apprentice jockey in his home town, but increasing weight cut short a riding career after only eight months and he quit racing to pursue a business interest. He did spend some time, though, helping out on the track – something which was to come in handy when he and his family moved to Toowoomba in the 1980s to “enjoy a better lifestyle”.

THE PLACE TO EAT THE PLACE TO DRINK THE PLACE TO STAY

Through his wife Sandra working at the tote and his regular attendance at Clifford Park race meetings, he was offered a position in 1985 as a cadet steward and accepted. It led to him taking over as Racecourse Manager on the recommendation of then chief steward Clem Halcroft. Birch oversaw the rebuild of the course proper, eliminating a fair percentage of the track’s famous “hill”. Subsequent similar roles at Caloundra’s Corbould

Bradley Photographers 02 4868 1433 Bradley Photographers 02 4868 1433 Bradley Photographers 02bradleyphotos.com.au 4868 1433 www.bradleyphotos.com.au photos@ www.bradleyphotos.com.au www.bradleyphotos.com.au

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INSIDE RUNNING N E WC A S T L E J O C K E Y C LU B M EM B ER N E WS L E T T ER AU T U M N 2 017

MARKETING KEY TO

UNLOCKING BIG DAYS AT WYONG

XCELLENT marketing has reaped dividends from two of Wyong’s feature summer attractions – the Magic Millions and Family Fun days. Wyong chief executive David Jewell says both meetings have now developed excellent brands and become such an important part of the club’s annual racing calendar.

“Our Magic Millions day in late December was up 40 per cent in terms of bar and hospitality sales and attendance,” Jewell told FROM THE TRACK.

before finishing sixth. Madotti, runner-up at Wyong, subsequently won the $1m QTIS event at the Gold Coast.

“We had 800 people in function areas, and 300 of them were in our new marquee, which was being utilised for the first time and is proving a wonderful addition to our facilities.

Last year’s Wyong 3&4YO winner Flippant confirmed the form by winning a Listed race at Flemington during last year’s Melbourne Cup carnival.

“Promoting this meeting as part of our Christmas At The Races has created a really good brand.” With co-operation from Racing NSW, Wyong actually pushed the fixture forward a week to Thursday, December 22 at the request of Magic Millions to maintain a gap of three weeks between the club’s two MM features and the $10m raceday at the Gold Coast in mid-January. “We have a terrific relationship with the Magic Millions company, and our two feature races ($200,000 1100m 2YO Classic and $100,000 1200m 3 & 4YO) are providing trainers with excellent lead-up races to the big raceday at the Gold Coast in mid-January. “For the first time since our MM 2YO Classic was run in 2003 (won by Not A Single Doubt), a Victorian youngster was successful.”

r the last

Team Hayes won the race with favorite Madeenaty (Mark Zahra), and the filly then ran a splendid third to new Golden Slipper favorite Houtzen and Chauffeur in the $2m MM 2YO Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast.

Park Hotel

Short-priced favorite Egyptian Symbol (Brenton Avdulla) won the Wyong 3 & 4YO and then started favorite in the $1m F&M Classic at the Gold Coast

Tye Angland took the riding honours with a double, taking the first and last races on the seven-event card. He scored on Tornado of Souls for Egyptian Symbol’s trainer Bjorn Baker and Dorf Star for Clarry Conners. Jewell described the Family Fun Day on January 22 as “massive”. “This annual Sunday meeting is getting bigger each year,” he said. “Being held in school holiday time, it is certainly proving popular with families. There were kids everywhere.” Wyong broke new ground by initiating a Fashions On The Field competition for the youngsters. “We had $3000 worth of donated prizes, and there were 94 entries,” Jewell said. “It certainly added to the day’s atmosphere.”

Call in after the lastCall in aft Wickham Park Hotel Wickham

Several of the A League’s Central Coast Mariners’ team were in attendance, and the club also conducted a celebrity mini-trotters race, with former champion jockey Mal Johnston adding another “win” to his belt, defeating local trainer Tracey Bartley. Though yet to be confirmed, the likely date for Wyong’s Magic Millions meeting this year is Thursday, December 21.

Call in after the last

Bistro Facilities Entertainment - Race Days 5.30pm - 8.00pm (Beer Garden)

Maitland Road Islington One block from Beaumont Street. Catch the free courtesy bus to Hamilton Station.

Destination Tucson creates history by winning the first race on the course proper with Brenton Avdulla on board

You’re on a winner @ the Wicko!

C H A I R M A N ’ S M E S SAG E

W H AT ’ S O N

N E WC A S TLE & H U NTE R R AC I N G H A LL O F FA M E

H OS P ITA LIT Y U P DATE

S P R I N G S TA K E S

M E M B E R S ’ O FFE R S

Q & A WITH M AT T B E N S O N

CO M I N G S O O N !

WHAT’S ON UPCOMING EVENTS MAR 2017

Message from our Chairman

FRIDAY 3 – SUNDAY 5 MARCH Newcastle Psychic & Lifestyle Expo WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH Newcastle & Hunter Racing Hall of Fame Gala Dinner THURSDAY 16 MARCH Beauford Club Luncheon MERCEDES-BENZ NEWCASTLE AUTUMN RACING CARNIVAL SATURDAY 11 MARCH Prosperity Advisers Group Race Day FRIDAY 17 MARCH Newcastle Newmarket Race Day SATURDAY 25 MARCH Australian Hotels Association NSW Race Day Joshua Caruso Foundation Marquee Fundraiser WEDNESDAY 29 MARCH The Provincial Championships

APR 2017

SATURDAY 2 APRIL Love on the Lawn Wedding Expo TUESDAY 4 APRIL Master Builders Association Tradeshow SATURDAY 8 APRIL Ryan Ansell Investment Solutions Race Day

Dear Members, Welcome to our Autumn Newsletter and I trust you are looking forward as eagerly as we are to the upcoming Newmarket Race Day on March 17 when we launch our new course proper. Some will remember back in 2011 when our track was deemed unsafe by Racing NSW (RNSW) stewards, an action which forced an immediate repair job in order for us to race again. After this track closure we successfully approached RNSW for funding to rebuild the whole track including the installation of the Beaumont track – with the overall proposal aimed at enabling NJC to continue racing well into the future on a stateof-the-art surface. Subsequent to that request and further negotiations, RNSW generously agreed to contribute $11.2 million to the project, to which NJC have financially supported to the tune of around $2.5 million. With the above in mind, I thank everyone who has contributed to the successful completion of all the new racing and training surfaces. The original track was opened in 1907 and with proper care and maintenance I’m confident that our new track can be in use for many decades to come.

Girls Day Out

I’m really looking forward to our launch day and we expect a large crowd of members, racing participants and the general public to come along and enjoy the celebrations. The Newcastle and Hunter Racing Hall of Fame is a great initiative and NJC are grateful to the organisers, selection panel and researchers who have volunteered to manage its affairs including setting out the guidelines and encouraging racing enthusiasts to submit nominations. Inductees will be named at a special dinner on Wednesday March 15 and everyone is invited to attend. The cost for NJC Members is $140 per person. NJC Director Brian Judd chairs the team, which includes panel members Gary Harley, Greg Radley, Ray Thomas and researcher Sam North. The Hall of Fame is completely independent from NJC and the club has had no formal involvement in the nomination or selection process apart from administrative support. The response has been outstanding with over 120 nominations submitted – so we are all looking forward to the big night when the inaugural eight inductees in the four categories of horses, jockeys, trainers and associates are announced.

The Provincial Championships Qualifier will again be run at Newcastle on Wednesday 29th March and we look forward to some very competitive racing. The Championships have proven to be a huge success and I’m certain there will be more good stories emanating from the series again this year. Twilight Race Meetings will continue next summer as they have proven to be very popular and increased sales and TAB turnover makes these later races attractive to off-course punters. We trust all members are enjoying the later time slot. Members will notice that in recent months the Board and Management have made many real improvements to our track and the racing facilities. We will continue to work on further projects as funds become available, which will ensure that your race day experience is always improving. Looking forward to seeing you at the Newcastle Races! Geoffrey Barnett, Chairman

A very popular new concept proposed last year by CEO Matt Benson is our 25 Year Member Lunches. NJC is a member-based club and this is an excellent way for us to recognise and celebrate the contribution of long term members while looking forward to their continuing membership and support. It is a great way to say thank you and give everyone the chance to catch up at a sit-down luncheon at the races.

TUESDAY 20 APRIL NJC Race Day TUESDAY 25 APRIL ANZAC Day Race Day - Cessnock

well supported and attracted 60 nominees.

SATURDAY 29 APRIL Hunter Melanoma Foundation Race Day MAY 2017

SATURDAY 6 MAY EWH Foods Race Day FRIDAY 12 & SATURDAY 13 MAY Beyond Boundaries Expo THURSDAY 18 MAY Newcastle & Lake Macquarie Career Links Expo SATURDAY 20 MAY Newcastle Herald Race Day SATURDAY 27 MAY NJC Race Day

2 | INSIDE RUNNING Autumn 2017

NEWCASTLE JOCKEY CLUB Newcastle Jockey Club Darling Street, Broadmeadow Phone: 4961 1573 njc.com.au ABN: 13 000 002 513

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr Geoff Barnett – Chairman Mr Paul Leaming – Vice Chairman Mr Rob Dan – Director Mr Mike Hadaway – Director Mr Brian Judd – Director Mr Bill Moncrieff – Director Mr Richard Sonnichsen – Director

N E WC A S T L E & H U N T E R R AC I N G

HALL OF FAME The Newcastle & Hunter Racing Hall of Fame has hit the ground galloping with more than 120 people nominating their favourite horses, trainers, jockeys and associates. Hall of Fame Chairman Brian Judd said he was delighted that the inaugural Newcastle & Hunter Racing Hall of Fame has been so

“The number and quality of nominations comes as no surprise given the region’s rich racing history. It is apparent that the decisions for future Selection Committees will be just as difficult as it was on this occasion,” said Mr Judd. “The awards recognise and celebrate the contribution of horses, trainers, jockeys and associates to the Newcastle and Hunter region or the wider Australian thoroughbred industry,” he added. Inductees will be honoured with a plaque to be placed in the

soon to be designed “Hall of Fame Garden” at Broadmeadow Racecourse along with a commemorative framed print. The race is now on to see who will be honoured at the Newcastle & Hunter Racing Hall of Fame Gala Dinner to be held on Wednesday 15 March 2017 at Broadmeadow Racecourse. Tickets are, NJC members $140 per person, or $1,250 for a table of ten, and include a three course meal and beverages. To book your tickets and view the Hall of Fame Nominees, visit newcastlehunterhof.com.au.

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OUR NEWCASTLE ‘NURSERY’

LEES FINDS A GEM IN THE SPRING STAKES

The redeveloped course proper at Newcastle Racecourse is like no other track in Australia and our 900m chute without peer for impressionable 2 year olds. Our wide, even track offers a long run into the first turn, a velodrome-like camber and a 420m straight that gives every horse a chance - and all this on an unequalled cushion of StrathAyr kikuyu.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR 2YO OWNERS The Newcastle Jockey Club is delighted to offer four (4) complimentary threecourse meals with a drink on arrival in our superb trackside Chevals Restaurant overlooking the winning post for owners of 2YO’s having their first start at Newcastle Racecourse over 900m. And - if you win we’ll throw in a bottle of Möet & Chandon!!*

*Bookings must be confirmed with the club by 12 midday on the Friday before the race by calling (02) 4961 1573 or emailing reception@njc.com.au AVAILABLE FROM 8 APRIL, 2017

BY GARY HARLEY

While all eyes were on Winx in anticipation of her 14th straight victory at Royal Randwick, it was Newcastle trainer Kris Lees who flew under the radar as the big winner of the day with three Group 3 winners, the first time he has achieved that feat. With the rebuilding of the $11.2 million course proper, the Spring Stakes could not be held during NJC’s 2016 Spring Carnival in September. The Australian Turf Club agreed to add the Trainer Connections Spring Stakes to their program to be run on

Saturday 11 February at Randwick, which was then transferred to the 13th due to the extreme forecasted heat. The Lees family captured their second Group 3 Newcastle Spring Stakes win when the much improved filly Invincible Gem won the three year old event at Randwick on Monday. The late Max Lees trained a crackerjack three year old, Coronation Day, which won the 1992 Newcastle Spring Stakes. Kris Lees prepared Invincible Gem a brilliant 3 ¾ length winner of last Monday’s

Invincible Gem takes out the Trainer Connections Spring Stakes at Royal Randwick.

Spring Stakes. It was the filly’s third win on the trot and Invincible Gem is the third filly to win the race. The Gai Waterhouse-trained Lotteria won the Group 3 and that was back in 2004, followed by Anthony Cummings’ Lovemelikearock in 2009. Lees’ Group 1 star Le Romain made a great return to the track with a gutsy win in the Group 3 The Chi-X Southern Cross Stakes, and finished the day with the talented Zestful winning the Robrick Lodge Triscay Stakes.

NJC’S HOSPITALITY DEPARTMENT HEATS UP enjoys cooking and entertaining, pale ales and pinot noir. He is a sports nut and loves all forms of sport, and his main focus is on his young family.

Glynn Haslam, General Manager Hospitality Operations, has been implementing changes across the racecourse to improve the overall hospitality experience at NJC. Coming soon will be an upgraded menu in the Members’ Lounge, as well as a redesigned casual eats area in the Courtyard Room. Newcastle Jockey Club’s Events Manager, Alice Johnson, is about to embark on an exciting new chapter in her life – motherhood. Alice has been an integral part

of the NJC family for the past five years, and is looking forward to spending the next 12 months settling into her new role as mum. We wish Alice and her husband Nick all the best for baby Johnson. NJC welcomes Tony Whale as Events Manager. Tony has 30 years of hospitality experience, working in pubs, clubs, restaurants, resorts and events, most recently as Head of Events at Mingara. In his down time, Tony

Emma Burke, Functions & Events Co-ordinator, was farewelled as she moves to Brokenwood Wines in the Hunter Valley. The move allows Emma to be closer to home and her family. We thank Emma for all her hard work, and wish her all the best in her future endeavours. Joining NJC as head chef is Jamie Catalogna, who brings with him over 20 years experience. Jamie combined his love of travel and food by working in London on and off for 10 years, as well working in the South of France. Notably, Jamie worked as a chef at the acclaimed Lords Cricket Ground. Jamie is married with two children, and spends his free time on the golf course and playing the drums in his band.

Mercedes-Benz Newcastle. Mercedes-Benz Newcastle is a locally owned and operated dealership servicing the Newcastle and Hunter region and we are proud to be the naming rights sponsor for the Newcastle Jockey Club 2017 Autumn Racing Carnival. Visit our showroom today and experience the latest Mercedes-Benz models and a selection of Certified Pre-Owned on display, along with a range of after-sales products and services available throughout the life of your vehicle. mbnewcastle.com.au

Mercedes-Benz Newcastle 1 Pacific Highway, Bennetts Green NSW 2290, Tel (02) 4974 4244, www.mbnewcastle.com.au, Lic No 18100

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BE REWARDED WITH YOUR NEW NJC MEMBERSHIP Membership of the Newcastle Jockey Club is a winning option if you want to experience live racing, great facilities and plenty of entertainment. For $132 per year you can enjoy more than 30 race meetings including the two-day Spring Carnival, Newmarket Race Day and Boxing Day, all from the comfort of the well-appointed Members’ Lounge adjacent to the parade ring. You will also get the best views of the newly redeveloped course proper from the Members’ Grandstand.

JOIN TODAY AND RECEIVE 3 MONTHS FREE!

Members also receive regular dining deals in Chevals Restaurant, which overlooks the parade ring and winning post, plus the opportunity to attend exclusive Members only functions and trips to other race clubs. NJC Members receive reciprocal rights to over 19 racecourses around Australia including the Australian Turf Club (Randwick, Rosehill, Canterbury and Warwick Farm), Melbourne Racing Club and Victoria Racing Club. For $66 you can purchase a Guest pass for the year, which is transferrable. New to the 2017/18 season will

SEA SON

Q&A see an upgrade to the Members’ Reward Program, as well as a new Members’ Handbook. To enquire about becoming an NJC Member, please call Administration on (02) 4961 1573 or visit njc.com.au

SPECIAL OFFER:

VOUCHER

CHEVALS RESTAURANT

COMPLIMENTARY GUEST ENTRY FOR TWO

VOUCHER

Join before 31 March 2017 and receive membership valid until 30 June 2018

Single voucher use only. Voucher must be produced at time of redemption. Valid until 31 May 2017. Not valid Newmarket. Member offer only.

Buy one three-course meal in Chevals Restaurant and receive one complimentary three-course meal for a guest. Single voucher use only. Voucher must be produced at time of redemption. Valid until 31 May 2017. Not valid Newmarket. Member offer only.

Entry to Broadmeadow Racecourse including the Members’ Lounge and the Members’ Grandstand. Single voucher use only. Voucher must be produced at time of redemption. Valid until 31 May 2017. Not valid Newmarket. Member offer only.

FREE VENUE HIRE Book an event with catering (meeting, conference, anniversary, engagement party, etc) on a non-race day and receive complimentary venue hire to the value of $400. Applies to events held at Broadmeadow Racecourse before 31 May 2017. Minimum 25 guests. Member offer only.

6 | INSIDE RUNNING Autumn 2017

Order a bottle of house white and receive a complimentary upgrade to The Lucky Punter Sauvignon Blanc or order a bottle of house red and receive a complimentary upgrade to Bookies Bag Pinot Noir.

FREE VENUE HIRE

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WINE UPGRADE IN CHEVALS RESTAURANT

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VOUCHER

MEMBER OFFERS

exhil erac ing!

with Chief Executive Matt Benson

THIS MONTH, RACING ADMINISTRATOR MICHAEL BUCKLEY SPEAKS WITH CHIEF EXECUTIVE MATT BENSON ABOUT THE IMPENDING COURSE PROPER LAUNCH Michael: We are quickly approaching the opening of the new $11.2 million course proper and you have had the opportunity to witness both gallops and trials on the track, what have been your initial thoughts on the surface and the potential for it to be become the best racing surface in New South Wales? Matt: The key to both Racing NSW and the club’s approach has been patience. The last turf was laid in May last year and the vast majority of the track has had the best part of 10 months to establish and consolidate. There have been too many instances in the past where we have seen tracks rushed to meet a deadline – and it almost always ends in tears. So - well done to the stakeholders for allowing cool heads to prevail when they signed off on a March 2017 launch date early last year. We saw last week with the first trials on the track, that after almost 50mm of rainfall and irrigation in the preceding 24 hours, the course proper was rated a Good 4 and the traditional Beaumont profile (without the 15mm of irrigation) came up a Heavy 8. So the track is living up to its reputation as being a super drainage medium. I have no doubt as it matures and we keep learning more and more about this track that it will be the best track in Australia as far as racing after heavy rain – and some senior jockeys who know a lot more than me are already saying it is the best in NSW. Michael: Being a country boy yourself, obviously ‘grass roots’ racing holds fond memories and

a close place in your heart. What are some exciting events and partnerships moving forward that racegoers can look forward to at Cessnock’s Wine Country Race Club? Matt: You’re right – I cut my teeth on the races at Oakbank at Easter in the Adelaide Hills and always sponsored racing at Strathalbyn, and also Kangaroo Island and Jamestown when running my businesses. We have managed to get Racing NSW to move the Jungle Juice Day to a Friday in October – which is a much better day than a Tuesday. This way we can have a racing lunch in Cessnock on the Thursday and a Calcutta at the Leagues Club on the Thursday night. People from Sydney and Newcastle can also plan a weekend away for the races and a visit to the Hunter Valley. We also have really exciting plans for Anzac Day – including a new Memorial to Horses in WW1. We have been talking to a number of Defence Force personnel about ramping up the Anzac Day theme. It also looks like the Cessnock Cup day will be on a Thursday in November this year – so we are hoping that will also prove a winner. Michael: Racing in Australia has a challenge ahead in promoting itself to a younger audience as it tries to compete with other sporting codes. We have recently seen the $12 million (USD) Pegasus World Cup held in America with UFC superstar Conor McGregor heavily involved in the advertising. Now that Racing NSW have announced The Everest race in October worth $10

million dollars, do you think this concept will encourage people to attend the races more regularly and change the landscape of racing? Matt: Racing in NSW is in very good shape and the prizemoney on offer here is not only the envy of many of our interstate counterparts, but the envy of many racing precincts in the world - and especially owners in the UK. The Everest concept is very clever and will obviously raise the profile of our sport – which is great. I am always nervous when people talk about getting the ‘young ones’ here because they are an elusive and canny crowd. I think whilst we must focus on engagement with the younger generation – we must also focus on the empty nesters and couples with older children. It is far more attractive to get involved with racing when you have mortgages and school fees under control. Racehorse ownership must always be a key outcome that is worked on by all industry participants – and the clubs should play a role in that too. I am a great supporter of syndication to make ownership affordable and fun – but I am equally passionate about the need for total transparency in these activities, and moreover, a lot more comparative information provided to prospective owners regarding what different syndicators charge and don’t charge. We are blessed here in Newcastle, with two very good operators based here in Allen Hardes and the Australian Bloodstock team.

INSIDE RUNNING Autumn 2017 | 7

FROM THE TRACK

NEW TVC FOR NJC To coincide with the opening of the jewel in the crown of Racing NSW and NJC’s $11.2 million track redevelopment - our new course proper - a new television commercial was created. In the coming weeks it will appear on NBN Television and will be supported by radio and print advertising.

GOSFORD KEEN TO

HI T H

TC A W

E C A P S

MERCEDES-BENZ NEWCASTLE

AUTUMN RACING CARNIVAL 11 - 29 MARCH

OTWITHSTANDING another successful summer carnival, Gosford is keen to reinvigorate its Gold Cup meeting. The annual Magic Millions yearling sales and $10m raceday at the Gold Coast is impacting negatively on Gosford’s big meeting, hence the club’s understandable keenness to correct that situation next year.

Aside from a field of only six runners for the $150,000 Gosford Gold Cup, many trainers were unable to be at Gosford because of Gold Coast commitments. “We had numerous trophies and presentations that were to be made on the day for our feature races, but a number of trainers and owners were absent because of the Magic Millions,” The Entertainment Grounds chief executive Daniel Lacey told FROM THE TRACK. “Obviously, we were disappointed with a small fi eld for the Cup, but it followed similar fields over the summer for the staying features in Sydney. Unfortunately staying races in NSW are not attracting big fields anymore” Gosford offered excellent prizemoney of $575,000 for its seven-race Cup program and in a determined effort to reinvigorate the day, the club is now in discussions with RacingNSW about not only moving the Cup to another date, but also adding a Saturday meeting as part of the carnival. “Running the Cup on another weekend would get us away from the Magic Millions, and staging another meeting a day later on the Saturday would enable us to run a feature marketing campaign,” Lacey explained. “In co-operation with RacingNSW, it would be great if we were able to achieve this. I am conscious of trying to fit the Cup in with the other like races and lead ups in the period being Villiers, Summer Cup and Tatts Cup” “Overall, though, our summer carnival was very successful, especially considering three of the meetings were held on 40-degree days.

“Our New Year’s Eve meeting was a real highlight, and attracted a crowd of 5000. It is now clearly a huge day for the club and has become a real event on the social calendar for families and visitors to our area during the Christmas holidays.”

r the last

NEWCASTLE NEWMARKET RACE DAY FRIDAY 17 MARCH THE PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS WEDNESDAY 29 MARCH

CUP MEETING

“Obviously, it is very tough in those circumstances to get patrons away from their homes, pubs, beaches and clubs.

PROSPERITY ADVISERS GROUP RACE DAY SATURDAY 11 MARCH

Park Hotel

REINVIGORATE

Call in after the last

AUSTRALIAN HOTELS ASSOCIATION NSW RACE DAY SATURDAY 25 MARCH

defeating Villiers winner Sense Of Occasion and the evergreen Destiny’s Kiss. The latter’s Gosford placing was sandwiched between three feature Randwick 2400m victories; the Christmas Cup, Tatts Cup and Australia Day Cup. Bjorn Baker-trained Imposing Lass (Jason Collett) won the $150,000 Group 3 Belle of the Turf Stakes (1600m), whilst fellow Warwick Farm trainer Joe Pride won the $125,000 Listed De Bortoli Wines Takeover Target Stakes with Kuro (Josh Parr). Fittingly, former popular local champ Mustard led the Takeover Target field out on to the track. Mustard ran second to Takeover Target in 2004 when the feature sprint was known as the Pacesetter Stakes. Local trainer Angela Davies won the $60,000 Malcolm Cusick Stakes (1200m) with her promising sprinter Waitandwatch. Gosford also introduced a new set of barrier stalls for the Cup meeting. “We take horse, jockey and staff welfare seriously, and the old barriers were showing signs of fatigue,” Lacey said. The Entertainment Grounds has further feature meetings approaching on Wednesday, March 15 ($150,000 1200m Class 5 qualifying heat of the Provincial Championships series) and Thursday, March 30 ($150,000 Listed Pluim Gosford Guineas, run over 1200m for 3yo’s at set weights plus penalties) and the Class 4 1600m in memory of the late Bill Rutledge. Gosford will continue to be used indefinitely as a training facility beyond the end of this year, following a joint announcement by the club and RacingNSW in mid-January. Previously, The Entertainment Grounds, concerned with the viability of both providing and maintaining training facilities, had seriously contemplated not continuing to do so beyond December 31.

Call in after the lastCall in aft Wickham Park Hotel Wickham

Gosford’s summer carnival began at The Entertainment Grounds on Thursday, December 1 and concluded with the Thursday, January 19 meeting.

“RacingNSW has been extremely supportive of our trainers and has recognised the importance of Gosford not only in its current form but also for future expansion,” Lacey said.

Sydney trainer Gerald Ryan won the $150,000 Listed Gosford Quarries Gosford Gold Cup (2100m) with Red Excitement (Adam Hyeronimus),

The Entertainment Grounds contributes more than $70m annually to the Central Coast economy.

Bistro Facilities Entertainment - Race Days 5.30pm - 8.00pm (Beer Garden)

Maitland Road Islington

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FROM THE TRACK a week prior to Mr Leckie’s death, said the naming of the Country Cup was a fitting way to honour the club’s late chairman. “Noel was a great fighter for NSW country racing in general, and our committee considered this was the right race at our carnival to name after him.

SCONE HONOURS

NOEL LECKIE AT ITS MAY CARNIVAL

SCONE Race Club will honour its late chairman Noel Leckie with the naming of a race at its forthcoming two-day carnival in May. The Noel Leckie Country Cup (1400m) will be run on the opening day – Friday, May 12 – of an outstanding carnival which carries more than a record $1.9m in prizemoney.

Run as a Benchmark 78 Handicap last year (it was previously a Benchmark 70), the Country Cup this year will be conducted as a Benchmark 85. Mr Leckie, who passed away on January 24 at 64 years of age, spent 23 years on the Scone committee – the majority of them as either chairman or vice-chairman. He was largely responsible for Scone being granted a two-day stand alone carnival in May, now approaching its seventh year and firmly established as one of the best country carnivals in Australia.

The two-day meet was inaugurated in 2011, and has grown in stature each year. Mr Leckie was not only passionate about his own club, but was also an avid breeding enthusiast.

“He is a great loss to his family and the Scone club, along with the racing and breeding industries. “Noel played an integral part in luring me to Scone and I was really looking forward to working with him. He is going to be terribly missed.” Alastair Pulford, Darley Australia’s Head of Sales, has been elected by the committee to take over as chairman following Mr Leckie’s death. In other news, Darley has been confirmed as the new sponsor of the $200,000

Listed Scone Cup (1600m), also run on the opening day of the carnival. “We are delighted that Darley has come on board for three years as naming rights sponsor of the Cup,” Courtney said. “Our first day of the carnival will be known as Darley Scone Cup day and the second jointly as Inglis Guineas/Emirates Park Dark Jewel day.” The $400,000 Inglis Guineas (1400m) for three-year-olds and $200,000 Group 3 Emirates Park Dark Jewel Classic (1400m) for fillies and mares highlight the second day, which offers $1.36m in prizemoney and again takes the place of a Sydney Saturday meeting. There are also four Listed races – the Ortensia Stakes (1100m) and Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) for open company sprinters, Denise’s Joy Stakes (1100m) for three-year-old fillies and Woodlands Stakes (1100m) for two-year-old fillies.

The program for Scone’s rich two-day carnival is: FRIDAY, MAY 12 (Darley Scone Cup Day) - $560,000

SATURDAY, MAY 13 (Inglis Guineas/Emirates Park Dark Jewel Day) - $1.36m

$200,000

Listed Darley Scone Cup (1600m)

$400,000

Inglis 3YO Guineas (1400m)

$100,000

Inglis 2YO Challenge (1100m)

$200,000

Group 3 Emirates Park Dark Jewel Classic (1400m) – F&M

$60,000

Noel Leckie Country Cup (1400m) – Benchmark 85 Handicap

$140,000

Listed Ortensia Stakes (1100m)

$40,000

Class 2 Handicap (1300m)

$140,000

Listed Denise’s Joy Stakes (1100m) – 3YO Fillies

$40,000

Class 1 Handicap (1600m)

$140,000

Listed Luskin Star Stakes (1300m)

$40,000

Class 1 Handicap (1100m)

$140,000

Listed Woodlands Stakes (1100m) – 2YO Fillies

He bred brilliant filly Houtzen, who won the Magic Millions 2YO Classic at the Gold Coast on January 14 (only 10 days before his death).

$40,000

Maiden Plate (1300m)

$100,000

Benchmark 78 Handicap (2200m)

Scone’s new chief executive Heath Courtney, who relocated from his previous position as Toowoomba Turf Club’s operations manager to take up his post

$40,000

Maiden Handicap (1000m)

$100,000

Benchmark 78 Handicap (1100m)

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FROM THE TRACK

JOE

O’NEILL

As Mitchell began to scale down his training business (and eventually retired in 2005), O’Neill and his wife realised they had to expand their business to bring in other trainers.

PR I M E E X A M PL E O F SY N DICAT IO N SUCCESS

“We were the first ones to do it. We gave several horses to David Hayes (Adelaide and Melbourne) and Kris Lees (Newcastle) and one to Mel Eggleston at the Gold Coast.” O’Neill’s trainers now are Lees and John Thompson (NSW), Darren Weir, Patrick Payne and John Moloney (Victoria), Tony McEvoy (South Australia), Tony Gollan (Queensland) and Charlie Goggin and his daughter Luella Meaburn (Tasmania).

ORE winners, more often, more fun. A catchy slogan indeed – but it’s no idle boast. In terms of Australian racehorse syndication businesses, Joe O’Neill’s Prime Thoroughbreds has clearly stood the test of time.

Queensland-born O’Neill is going as strongly as ever and has just attended his 20th Magic Millions yearling sales on the Gold Coast to select and buy horses to syndicate amongst established and new clients. On top of that he won the $2m 3YO Guineas with Flying Jess at $101. Such has been his success that he now has horses trained in five Australian states – Victoria, NSW, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania. His familiar blue, white star and red cap colours have become so recognisable on Australian racetracks that racing fans immediately associate them with Prime. O’Neill’s good mate and client Barry Quick came up with the “more winners, more often, more fun” slogan. “Barry worked at SEN Radio in Melbourne, and now manages 6PR in Perth,” O’Neill told FROM THE TRACK. “He had a few horses of his own without any luck, and has had a lot more success with our syndications. “He was in the ownership of Prime horses such as Hidden Wonder (winner of 9 races) and Unabated (4 races) and Flying Jess, who also won last year’s Group 3 Sires Produce Stakes at Morphettville.” Prime horses have won more than 600 races, with a 70 per cent success rate on horses syndicated. “Our percentage of 20 per cent winners to runners is something I’m very proud of,” O’Neill said. “In an industry which can be unforgiving, that’s a terrific statistic.” O’Neill is understandably “very protective of his client base” and is always on the lookout for “nice horses”. “We’ve got a wonderful list of clients, and they have to be looked after. “Without them, of course, we would not have enjoyed the success we have.

“Communication is absolutely vital. We always strive to keep our owners fully updated on how their horses are progressing.” O’Neill says purchasing “value for money” horses has also been an important factor in Prime’s continuing success. “I put a value on each yearling I inspect,” he said. “It’s the only way to operate if you want to stay in business. “If the price goes over what I value a horse at, then I walk away. And I don’t have commitments with studs; I’m totally independent. “Generally, I buy fillies because they offer a better return for owners at the end of their races, especially if they are successful on the track. “But I won’t pass up a colt or gelding if I consider they are good value.” O’Neill cited Holding and Unchain My Heart as two perfect examples of his policy. “I bought Holding (named after the former West Indian cricketer and now commentator Michael Holding) out of a paddock for $8000,” he explained. “I was visiting Lyndhurst Stud on the Darling Downs, and took a liking to him. “I syndicated him to a few mates including wellknown rugby league caller David Morrow and former Newtown footballer Mick Ryan. “He won his first race at Ipswich and later won at Flemington during the Melbourne Cup carnival. He went from a bush horse to a good quality city sprinter. “Holding won 10 races (also including the Wangoom Handicap at the Warrnambool carnival) and $270,000 in prizemoney. “Unchain My Heart cost $45,000 and also won 10 races, including the 2012 Listed Bagot Handicap at Flemington, and both the 2013 and 2014 Andrew Ramsden Stakes over 3200m, also at Flemington. “We sold her on and, whilst she didn’t win another

race, she made the field for the 2014 Melbourne Cup.” The dearest horse O’Neill has purchased is a Savabeel colt he went to $510,000 for. Obviously, he liked him very much. Named Lord Elliott, he is trained by John Thompson at Randwick and connections naturally have high hopes for him.

As with his clients, O’Neill is also very proud of his list of trainers.

social media,” he recalled.

“I choose them carefully,” he said. “Naturally, they have to be good at what they do, but importantly be well-respected in the industry and good communicators.”

“It was a simple thing, but it was very important. David Hayes won a two-year-old race for us at Bendigo in March, 2006 with a filly named Sun Glazed, who was on debut. It gave us the kick along we needed.

Whilst Prime Thoroughbreds has enjoyed considerable success over t wo decades, O’Neill listed a minor race win as the turning point in his business. “Bill had retired and we were having a pretty ordinary trot and copped some undeserved comments on

“We won more than a dozen races in the ensuing weeks, and haven’t looked back.” O’Neill says syndication has undoubtedly become harder. “When I started in Sydney, Harry Lawton and Denise Martin were the only other syndicators,” he said.

“Now, there are more than 40 syndicators currently listed in Victoria alone. “It’s too many, but the market will eventually correct itself. “We have a lot of loyal clients, and we work hard to maintain them and also attract new ones. “I’d say Prime is pretty well placed for the future. “I’m still enjoying it. Besides, I couldn’t sit at home and do nothing. I would go absolutely insane.”

Originally from Toowoomba, O’Neill recalls his grandmother listening to the then very popular Three-Way Turf Talk radio program whilst baking scones on Saturday mornings.

PRIME THOROUGHBREDS RACING PARTNERSHIP

“I guess that first got me interested in racing,” he said. “My grandmother was a very keen racing fan, and my aunty Margaret’s father was Con Doyle, who trained the 1967 Stradbroke Handicap winner Mister Hush.”

A partnership of 10 is being formed to race an exciting filly by

Visits to the Ramsey and Carl Waugh (the founder of the Magic Millions) properties outside Toowoomba furthered his interest in the industry, and he regularly visited the stables of trainer Pat Duff (then based in Toowoomba). Later, when based in Sydney in the army, he met Bill Mitchell (from the well-known Yarraman Park family in the Hunter Valley) and they struck up a close friendship. A keen cricketer, O’Neill wasn’t interested in a position he was to be offered as boss of Tasmanian cricket and instead set up his own business in 1997 syndicating horses for Mitchell to train.

SEBRING

Upcoming Race Dates 2017 Thursday 9 March 2017 Thursday 13 April 2017 Friday 21 April 2017 Tuesday 23 May 2017

Will be trained by

KRIS LEES

The first horse he bought was Doogle Dandy, a $20,000 product of the Magic Millions sales. When Mitchell relocated to Melbourne a few years later, O’Neill followed in July, 2001. “NSW was struggling and Victoria was on the move with the introduction of VOBIS (owner breeder incentive schemes),” he said. “Whilst NSW has now gone full steam ahead, we’re settled in Victoria. It’s still a great fit for me. Adelaide, Sydney and Hobart are only an hour’s flight away, and Brisbane is two hours.”

QUEEN HAVEL

Out of *Related to Group 1 winner Criterion Nominated for the rich Magic Millions Series.

Hospitality packages available See muswellbrookraceclub.com.au for more details admin@muswellbrookraceclub.com.au

Telephone: 02 6541 1699

0433 762 700

For more information, call Joe O’Neill 10 shares @ $31,500 each. 5% shares @ $15,750

Prime Thoroughbreds CURRENT team include: FLYING JESS (Winner of Magic Millions $2 million 3yo Guineas) HUSSON EAGLE (Winner of $1 million Magic Millions Sprint) HIJACK HUSSY (Winner of Listed Lexus Hybred Plate at Flemington) RENEGED (3/4 to BUFFERING & Grafton Guineas Winner) SAVOUREUX (Winner of ATC Wenona Girl Stakes)

www.primethoroughbreds.com.au Holder of AFS Licence Number 226395

FROM THE TRACK

HAWKESBURY’S STAND ALONE FEATURE DAY HAS

COME A LONG WAY

It’s often said that a rugby league team is only as good as its front office, and that can also be applied to a race club. With more than 20 years’ experience behind them, the sisters are the backbone of the provincial club and a very important part of Hawkesbury’s continuing success.

Image: Bradley Photographers

Whilst Rudolph succeeded long-serving Hawkesbury boss Brian Fletcher (now Panthers Group CEO) only last May, he played an important role in some of the club’s feature races gaining black type status.

The program boasts three Group 3 races (two worth $200,000 – the Blacktown Workers Club Hawkesbury Guineas and Hawkesbury Gold Cup – and the $175,000 Godolphin Crown for fillies and mares.

That opportunity arose when Rudolph, the former deputy chairman of stewards, took up another position with RacingNSW as General Manager of Racing & Commercial Operations between 2006-09.

Additionally, the XXXX Gold Hawkesbury Rush (1100m) for open company sprinters and Claret Stakes (1300m) for two-year-olds each carry $125,000.

“As the RacingNSW representative on the Pattern Committee during that time, I was able to work closely with Brian seeking upgrades for some of Hawkesbury’s feature races,” Rudolph told FROM THE TRACK. “We were eventually successful in getting Listed status for both the Rowley Mile and Darley (now Godolphin) Crown in 2010. “The Rowley Mile was then run at the stand alone meeting and, though now run in August, remains a Listed race whilst the Godolphin Crown has since been further upgraded to Group 3 status. Understandably, Rudolph is really looking forward to staging Hawkesbury’s 12th Saturday stand alone, which has clearly established itself as a permanent and popular fixture on the Australian racing calendar. This year’s nine-race program will carry total prizemoney of $1.185m; staggering for a one-day provincial meeting. It is a record, going slightly above last year’s $1.165m benchmark as the TAB Highway race was lifted several months ago by RacingNSW from $40,000 to $60,000.

HAWKESBURY STAND-ALONE PROGRAM

Spill The Beans (trainer Gerald Ryan & jockey Tim Clark) won last year’s Guineas, whilst Amovatio (Chris Waller & Rory Hutchings, pictured) and Nancy (Peter & Paul Snowden and Kerrin McEvoy) were successful in the Cup and Godolphin Crown respectively. The brilliant grey Chautauqua won the 2014 Guineas on his way to becoming an international star, underlining the importance of both the race and the meeting. Local Sons Of John won the 2015 Cup (run a couple of months later after heavy rain washed out that year’s stand alone after only one race had been run), whilst Chautauqua’s stablemate Leebaz was the Cup winner a year earlier.

Furnaces won last year’s Hawkesbury Rush, and the talented Swear won the Claret Stakes on debut when a two-year-old. Of course, Hawkesbury racegoers will recall the 2013 Claret success of Zoustar, who subsequently became a Group 1 sprinter and is now at stud. Other winners last year included Provincial Championships winner Danish Twist (Ladies Day Cup), Hipparchus (Provincial Stayers Championship) and Mackintosh (Benchmark 77 Handicap). The latter then won the 2000m Rough Habit and 2200m Grand Prix (both Group 3s) at Doomben, and later in the year the Group 2 Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) at Rosehill before finishing third to Hauraki in the Group 1 Epsom Handicap (1600m) at Randwick.

Group 3 Blacktown Workers Club Hawkesbury Guineas (1400m)

$200,000

Group 3 Hawkesbury Gold Cup (1600m)

$175,000

Group 3 Godolphin Crown (F&M) (1300m)

The inaugural stand alone in 2006 was worth $540,000, so Hawkesbury has done an outstanding job to now offer more than double that prizemoney.

$125,000

XXXX Gold Hawkesbury Rush (1100m)

Minimum prizemoney was $25,000 and it is now $100,000 (with the weekly TAB Highway for country-trained horses worth $60,000).

$125,000

Claret Stakes (2yo’s) (1300m)

$100,000

Provincial Stayers’ Championship (BM 85 Hcp) (2100m) Benchmark 85 Handicap (1300m)

$100,000

Benchmark 78 Handicap (1500m)

$60,000

TAB Highway (Class 3 Hcp) (1100m)

Nominations for all races close on Monday, April 24 at 11am

Porteous joined Hawkesbury in 2003, and Price followed her five years later. “I had my own bookkeeping business and saw an advertisement for a position at the club which caught my attention,” Porteous said. “When I got the job, our previous CEO Brian Fletcher told me I could keep running the business. “But it got to the stage where I gave that away and took up a full-time role at Hawkesbury.” Porteous’ key role is finance, but she also is involved with marketing and sponsorship. “The diversity of my job is something I really enjoy,” she said. “Income from wagering turnover is obviously important, and the income from our motel (situated on the club’s grounds) is also incorporated into our accounts system.

“The hospitality side is vital to our business, and that’s where customer service comes in. Jo and I both have a good nature, and we enjoy dealing with all our customers and looking after them.” The twins each have three children; Porteous has two sons (Aiden and Riley) and a daughter (Evie) and Price has two daughters (Georgia and Abbey) and a son (Luke). It was as a result of the birth of Porteous’ daughter Evie that her sister also joined the club on a permanent basis. “Lea took maternity leave when Evie was born, and I was in a position to go back to work full-time,” Price explained. “I look after the HR side at Hawkesbury, and also do accounts payable and membership as well as private functions. “As the latter has now grown, Alison Weir has recently joined our team to assist with that side of our business. “Lea and I get on really well, and enjoy working together. We have the same work ethic.” Out Hawkesbury way, the family which works together clearly stays together. Porteous’ sons

Peter Snowden’s success with Nancy in last year’s Godolphin Crown continued the marvellous run he has enjoyed in Hawkesbury’s feature fillies and mares’ event. But this was the first time he trained the winner in partnership with son Paul.

$200,000

$100,000

Lea & Jo

WALK into Hawkesbury Race Club’s office….and think you’re seeing double! Well, you can be excused because that is exactly the case. Staff members Lea Porteous and Jo Price are in fact identical twins; Jo being the elder by 11 minutes.

THIS year’s record-breaking Hawkesbury Saturday standalone meeting is being run exactly 11 years to the day (April 29) from the inaugural meeting in 2006. And the club’s newest chief executive Greg Rudolph will take extra satisfaction out of running for the first time the biggest meeting of the season at any provincial track.

GREAT SERVICE AT THE DOUBLE

With the support of the Provincial Association of NSW, Hawkesbury submitted a proposal to RacingNSW back in 2004 to conduct a Saturday stand alone meeting. That came to fruition on Aril 29, 2006 – and both the annual meeting and Hawkesbury Race Club hasn’t looked back since. Though currently a provincial club, Hawkesbury did have metropolitan status for more than a century. It was only following a Government report in 1939 on non-proprietary clubs that Hawkesbury was forced to renounce that status.

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Aiden (bar work and stock control) and Riley (hospitality) also work part-time at Hawkesbury whilst completing their uni degrees, as do Price’s daughters Georgia (waitressing at private functions) and Abbey (office work during school holidays). Hawkesbury’s chief executive Greg Rudolph says both women are highly regarded by all who have dealings with them, both within the club and also in the wider community. “As the fi rst port of call for most inquiries and raceday queries, nothing is ever too much trouble for Lea and Jo,” Rudolph said. “They go about their work professionally, diligently and with a sense of humour. “With their combined years of service, their background knowledge of the workings of the club and its operational requirements is invaluable.”

FROM THE TRACK

MUSWELLBROOK CUP REVIEW

NEW CUP DATE A WINNER

T’S onwards and upwards for Muswellbrook’s new Gold Cup date. Despite some criticism for moving its Cup meeting away from the traditional Melbourne Cup timeslot to a Friday later in November, Muswellbrook Race Club has clearly come out on top.

The November 25 meeting undoubtedly was a “positive start” to redeveloping a new tradition. And the club is intent on building an annual sporting festival around its biggest race meeting of the year. MRC’s energetic general manager Duane Dowell hailed a 40 per cent crowd increase, increased sponsorship and additional TAB turnover as an excellent platform to build on in coming years. With the support of Muswellbrook Shire Council, the half-day holiday previously gazetted for Melbourne Cup day was switched to the new Friday date. “Overall, our first Muswellbrook Cup in the new timeslot was pretty satisfying,” Dowell said. “We threw a lot at promoting the day because the local community wasn’t

entirely sold on our change of date.

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“Some preferred Melbourne Cup day, but the feedback both on the day itself and since has been great and now we have to ensure we continue to grow the meeting as the feature of a sporting festival at Muswellbrook. “Our committee is 110 per cent behind the new date, which provides Muswellbrook with renewed focus on our biggest day of the year.”

CATERING • Durable fabrics for protection from heat and staining. • Use of style and company logos to build team morale and WORKWEAR SELECTION present a professional image.

Service is the key and a smart appearance is mandatory. Alsco's catering uniform range is made from durable, wrinkle In conjunction with the Cup fixture, Muswellbrook Golf Club conducted resistant Garments a charity event on the afternoon prior to the raceday andfabrics. attracted such are shaped and cut for an up-todate look that is stylish yet practical.

Dowell feels the new Cup date can that reach greater Dowell also is keen to grow Muswellbrook’s Gold • Practical clothing meets food industry hygiene heights if his club is regulations granted a (HACCP). stand-alone Friday Sponsors’ Club, which is great value at $1650 inappearance ensuingisyears. per sponsor. Combine this flexible product range with Managed Service isto theprotect key andyour a smart mandatory. Classic, durable chef aprons uniform. • Durable fabrics for protection from Alsco's heat and staining. “One hundred and fifty-six golfers took part, and •$20,000 was raised for Alsco's catering uniform range is made from durable, wrinkle Workwear •Services and you will be able to save money Use ofifstyle and wasn’t company a logos “We to build teamtime, morale and had interest from other local • Fitted or loose styling coats for individual comfort and “It would be advantageous to us there have already Movers and Shakers, which is a Hunter-based support foundation for local resistant fabrics. Garments are shaped and cut for an up-toand build your corporate image.image. present a professional efficiency of movement. date look that is stylish yet practical. Canterbury Park night meeting the same day as businesses keen to be involved,” he said. people suffering from Parkinson’s disease,” Dowell explained. • Practical clothing that meets food industry hygiene that would enable us to also regulations attract some of the (HACCP). THE RANGE OFFERS: “All Gold Sponsors go into the draw for naming “Many of the golfers stayed on for the Cup Calcutta, which followed on Sydney jockeys,” Dowell explained. Combine this flexible product range with Alsco's Managed • Classic, durable chef apronshigher-profi to protect yourleuniform. rights the Cup. from the golf tournament.” Workwear Services and you will be able toto save time, moneyWhilst there can only be one • Fitted or loose styling coats for individual comfort and and build your corporate image. winner, every sponsor will have a race named after efficiency of movement. “The club continues to discuss the matter with Sydney radio identity Terry Kennedy chaired an informal chat with Bowman, RacingNSW to see if we can lock-in a Friday them during the yeae.” Cummings and Maher and then TAB.COM.AU’s Glenn Munsie hosted stand-alone date in future years. Hollydene Estate Wines was the successful Gold the calcutta. “Our TAB turnover was actually higher than Sponsors’ Club sponsor to lend its name to the Kennedy and co-host Jimmy Smith broadcast their Sky Sports Radio Big Canterbury, so we’re very confident we can stand 2016 $80,000 Muswellbrook Gold Cup (1500m). Sports Breakfast program live from the track on Cup morning. on our own.” But hopes of a victory for iconic local trainer Pat famous racing names as jockey Hugh Bowman and trainers James Cummings and Ciaron Maher. THE RANGE OFFERS:

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Muswellbrook will stage the Country Championships Wildcard ($50,000) – the final chance to qualify for the $400,000 final on April 1 – on Sunday, March 26 at its Showcase meeting.

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This year’s Cup meeting will be held on Friday, December 8 and it will revert to a late November date from 2018 onwards.

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With the backing of RacingNSW, this was a Country Showcase meeting, ensuring all races carried minimum prizemoney of $30,000.

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Farrell were dashed when Wyong’s Kim Waugh won the race with Dylan’s Rojo (Mitchell Bell), who led and held out Farrell’s $2.40 favorite Alart (Josh Parr) over the closing stages.

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MARE REPRODUCES

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HOBBY BREEDERS SHE might not exactly be a licence to “print” money, but a mare by former champion Lonhro is giving her hobby breeders the racing ride of their lives. Peter Robinson and his father-in-law Jack Stott, the former owners of Newcastle-based NCP Printing (which amongst its business prints racebooks for clubs), have already bred metropolitan winners in Melbourne and Adelaide from the only two foals out of Innishbeg to race so far. Innishbeg’s first foal (by Kentucky Derby winner Big Brown), the now four-year-old Brown Ben, has won four races; including three in a row in Adelaide in late October/November. He earned a break after an excellent fourth over 1400m at Flemington on December 10 on a day when backmarkers found it a difficult task to concede starts and win. Brown Ben’s younger half-brother Aspect (by Pluck) began his two-year-old season with a stunning victory in the Group 3 Maribyrnong Plate at Flemington on the closing day of the last Melbourne Cup carnival. It was the first horse Robinson and Stott and their respective wives Jen and Jean had ever started during Cup week.

Between them, the pair has returned their breederowners more than $180,000 in prizemoney – with the promise of more to come. “You could breed 100 horses and not get two as good as Brown Ben and Aspect,” Robinson told FROM THE TRACK. “It’s unbelievable. We’re very lucky but we don’t take it for granted. Anything can happen in racing. “Brown Ben was a nutcase in the beginning and we nearly didn’t persevere with him. Our trainer Tony McEvoy had him gelded and got him settled and has done a wonderful job. “Tony held a good opinion of Aspect from the time he first galloped, and his Flemington win on debut blew us away. “I was so hyped up I could hardly eat or drink afterwards to celebrate.” Robinson and Stott, along with then racing partners Tom Myles and Cameron Waters, paid $85,000 for Innishbeg (named after Myles’ Irish birthplace), at the 2007 Sydney Classic yearling sale. “We wanted to buy a fi lly by Lonhro (winner of 26 of his 35 starts, including 11 Group 1s) and targeted Innishbeg,” Robinson explained. “David Atkins, who trained Innishbeg, gave us a good

recommendation for her. “Whilst she won fi ve races, injury curtailed her realising her full potential.” Whilst the Robinsons and Stotts have naturally delighted in the successes of Brown Ben and Aspect, the breeding side of the venture hasn’t quite been as smooth as the racebooks that came off their presses. Brown Ben was the mare’s first foal, but she then lost a Testa Rossa filly, who died from pneumonia not long after being born. Aspect was the third foal of Innishbeg, who the following season produced a Testa Rossa colt (now a yearling). She then failed to get into foal to Pluck, but is now in foal to that stallion and, all going well, will give birth come spring. “We’ve decided the Testa Rossa yearling won’t go to the sales,” Robinson said. “We will probably race him ourselves but haven’t committed to that yet.” Time will tell if the youngster follows successfully in the hoofbeats of his older siblings. Let’s hope he is another fine product hot off the Innishbeg press!

the

PACE WHAT a great start! Newcastle Harness Racing Club’s return to regular Saturday night meetings is proving no barrier whatsoever. In fact, quite the opposite. It is a definite winner. So much so that at a recent fixture, 40 horses had to be balloted out. Newcastle Harness Racing Club ran 10 races – each with fields of 12 – meaning there was a total of 160 acceptors. “The club is delighted with the strong support we have been getting,” NHRC general manager Tony Drew told FROM THE TRACK. “We are pleasantly surprised with the number of metropolitan based trainers, who have shown they are very keen to race their horses at the Paceway.” Though Newcastle is conducting 61 meetings this season – down six on the previous racing year – the club guaranteed participants they would not suffer.

we will conduct at least as many races as in the previous season,” Drew explained. Newcastle conducts all mobile starts and, despite the strong presence of metropolitan trainers, Hunterbased participants are holding their own and winning their good share of races. At one stage, Newcastle had dropped back to staging only 12 Saturday meetings a season, and that number was increased to 25 last season. The club now holds 42 Saturday night fixtures – a return to the “good old days”. Drew says harness racing in the Hunter and NorthWest regions is in excellent shape. “Aside from our meetings drawing great interest, Maitland had a terrific Inter-City Pace carnival in January with 10 and 9-race programs and Tamworth recently also staged a 12-race meeting,” he said. MARK Petersen (pictured) has taken up duties as the club’s accountant. Steven Norris, who previously held the position, sadly lost his life at only 44 years of age last November. “Mark started with us in early February, and came to us highly recommended,” Drew said. “He has spent the last 11 years in a similar position at Newcastle University.”

And it is honouring that commitment.

MARKETING and Business Development Manager Jane Hextell reports an excellent response to the club’s promotions during the Christmas and January holiday period.

“By regularly staging 10 races, we are ensuring that

“Considering a lot of people were away on holidays, our

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attendances exceeded expectations,” Ms Hextell said. “Our Hot To Trot promotion at three night meetings in January went really well. “We are also offering FREE entry to seniors at appropriate meetings in March to recognise the Seniors Festival.” NEWCASTLE is also looking forward to staging its AVE Technologies Ross Gigg Newcastle Mile on Saturday night, May 6. Whilst the annual sprint is no longer an important lead-up to Club Menangle’s Miracle Mile (now run in February), the Newcastle Mile remains a feature of NSW harness racing’s Carnival of Cups. Harness Racing NSW has attached a $20,000 bonus to the series ($10,000 for the owner and $5000 for the trainer of the leading points scorer, provided the horse has contested a minimum four races during the series). A further $5000 is on offer to any owner whose horse competes in at least two of the selected races, with a draw to be conducted at the conclusion of the series to determine the lucky recipient.

FROM THE TRACK

55 GARRY MC QUILLAN seconds with

FAVORITE HORSE/S: Rich Megadale (we bred her and she won four races in Sydney and was twice Group placed) and Super Impose POSITION: President Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club

FOOTY TEAM: Eastern Suburbs Roosters

BIRTHPLACE: Sydney, NSW

MOST ADMIRED SPORTS PERSON: Vic Patrick; a very fair and honest man. A great Australian boxer – the war stopped him from winning a world title

FIRST JOB: Sheep and wheat property at Bathurst, NSW FAMILY: Wife Margaret, son Matthew, daughter Renee and four grandkids (three girls and a boy)

GLOBAL TOTE A NEW BETTING INITIATIVE RESPECTED Melbourne form analyst and punter Darren Potter has welcomed Hunter-based TopBetta’s impending introduction of the Global Tote.

Potter said he will be watching the early stages of the Global Tote, when it is introduced, with great interest.

Potter, 12Follow’s Melbourne expert, says that as a punter he is always looking for ways to get better prices.

“But should that take care of itself, it will certainly become an attractive market to bet into.”

“Any time a new product such as the Global Tote enters the marketplace, it becomes a key point of interest for myself and fellow high turnover punters,” he said.

The Global Tote combines liquidity from global bookmakers, and offers more betting products and there are no client restrictions.

“There is certainly an opening in the marketplace for a low takeout pari-mutuel alternative to the TAB.

It offers punters an alternative to fixed odds, with lower margins resulting in better dividends.

“The levels of liquidity will obviously be the key factor,” he added.

“TopBetta should be applauded for showing the initiative to get this up and running.”

FAVORITE MOVIE: All of the James Bond 007 ﬁlms

WHAT GOT YOU INTO RACING: From the age of eight, I never missed a race meeting at Randwick with my grandfather Ern McQuillan

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