Tales from the Track

Published: 14 Oct 2014

A couple of light-hearted tales from Royal Randwick on the weekend

"Last Dollar"

A tale from Spring Champion's day was shared by a smiling punter that had done all his cash across eight races. 

"Why the smile" was posed to the only slightly drunken bloke, who had somehow scooted into the Members enclosure in jeans.

"Free money!" came the response, as he bopped away to the DJ outside.

It turns out he found a ticket for a $5 'free bet' deep in his pocket and thought he couldn't go wrong boxing three of the favourites in a Trifecta in Race 8. A cool $79 was the result as Boss Lane kicked away from the field. It wasn't the biggest win that has ever been had, but for this bloke it was a great way to end the day. 

So kudos to the ATC for what seemed like a simple promotion that had a big impact on a new punter's experience of racing.

With the Spring 'silly season' now up us, there will be a lot of Saturday socialites passing through the gates. Hopefully the right mix of on-track action and off-track entertainment will leave them all as happy as he was.

"The Veteran"

As one of the Race Guide team wandered from the mounting yard to the main grandstand at Royal Randwick on Saturday he engaged in a conversation with an elderly gentleman who had returned to the races after a number of years off the track.

This long-time racing fan described the huge crowds of yesteryear and the action centred around the on-course rails bookies. He loved the excitement of the lead-up to each race and the passion of the crowd.

The "professional TV coverage" had made it easier for the "young folk" to remain at home instead of coming to the races.

It was great insight into the past and the disappointment in the voice of a racing pure-breed was clear.

While the crowds will never be what they once were, there is no better time to bring back a bit of old-fashioned racing magic than the Spring. When you are next on-track, get to the on-course bookies and give the winners a massive cheer.

Maybe this gentleman will get a surprise next time he pops back...