Award recognition for Otago pair
OTAGO racing identities Barrie Barber and Dave Hay were recognised for their mammoth contributions to the thoroughbred code at Riccarton yesterday.
They became the first two recipients of the newly created New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Service Award.
Barber has been a member of the Waikouaiti Racing Club committee for 44 years.
He has also made an equally impressive contribution to the Waikouaiti Trotting Club.
Barber has spent countless hours maintaining the Waikouaiti racecourse.
‘‘I am very proud, I have had a lot of good times in racing and I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t enjoy it, ’’ he said.
The award capped what was already a great week for Barber.
On Tuesday his trotter, Sundons Flyer, won the opening race on New Zealand Cup day.
The same day, he also received news his former quality racemare, Delightful Dash, was in foal to emerging sire Captaintreacherous.
Barber is a keen follower of both codes and has had group 1 success as an owner in both .
He partowned Cluden Creek, winner of the 2004 Wellington Cup, and also shared in the ownership of 1986 New Zealand Standardbred Breeders Stakes winner Quiet Touch.
Hay was recognised for his lengthy service as a race day paramedic. He is known for the extra lengths he goes to and the rapport he has with racing participants.
Hay said he was humbled by the award.
‘‘I am overwhelmed. I never expected this, I am just doing my job,’’ he said.
‘‘In the industry you get a rapport with the people and you get a bond and they are like family to me.
‘‘When I first started in the southern region, you have the Collets, the Winsloes and the Andertons and you keep in touch with them all.’