Beach race a galloping success
PERFECT racing conditions, a stunning backdrop and a host of hooves beating across the sand made for a memorable day out on the Wairarapa coast.
Cancelled last year due to lack of sand, the Castlepoint Beach Races yesterday afternoon attracted young shepherds racing on farm hacks through to thoroughbreds thundering the length of the beach for the coveted Castlepoint Cup.
Scott Whitehead of the Castlepoint Racing Club was thrilled at attracting close to
6000 punters.
‘‘It was awesome really.
We’ve got to be rapt with the weather and the crowd.’’
Sack races and egg and spoon races for the kids in between the horses and a betting system based more on luck than good judgement – noone was taking the day too seriously.
The unfancied Princeville won the feature race of the day, The Castlepoint Cup, which came up trumps for one punter, former TAB oddsmaker and Labour list MP Kieran McAnulty.
‘‘It came as a total shock not only to me, but also to the commentator. Of the three horses the commentator called across the line, Princeville wasn’t in the mix,’’ McAnulty said.
Jim Wood of New York said it was a very special day that seemed perfect this year.
‘‘Look at all the kids in between the races go out have a swim and come back. The horses are wonderful and the beach looks never better. Great day.’’