September 2016 | Page 16

BETOOTA RACES 2016 Despite the weather’s best effort to try and put a damper on the races, the committee were in no doubt that the races would go ahead. Bit disappointing though that tourists were told there were no races by those who had no idea what was happening. However those who took part in the weekend made it the weekend it was. A very big thank you to the Diamantina Shire Council for putting faith in Geoff and giving the club the support it needed. Also thanks to Colgate and staff for pulling out all stops to ensure the races could go ahead. Thanks to the grader drivers who put in long hours doing what was necessary to ensure a safe track.You did a fantastic job and was proven by the fact the Cup winner, Moore Alpha, ran a track record. Also thanks to the committee for pulling together and doing what was necessary to make the track pleasant for the race goers. Also thanks to the crowd for being happy with the conditions- your vibe could be felt all across the track. Thanks to the volunteers for giving 200% prior to the races- this includes total strangers who had turned up at races and could see tasks that needed to be done and just got in and did whatever was necessary. Paul Gillard, you were amazing and wherever help was needed, you were there. Racing Queensland should take a leaf out of your book. Saturday brought clear blue skies, fantastic racing and racegoers put in a top effort in supporting fashions of the field. The Madde Hatter (Blair Martin) again had the crowd spell bound and many thanks for adding that something extra to the meeting. Cathy Drummond did an exceptional job of entertaining Friday and Saturday night. A first for Betoota was the cup winner was trained by a lady (Heather Lehmann), and the jockey was a female (Karla Cross). Thankyou everyone for making our Betoota Races 2016 such a special and successful event once again. e l p u o ed C ss e r D Best Amber Monaghan And Josh Johnson Desert Yarns  September 2016 15