The Chronicle

Olympic star heading to Toowoomba’s biggest race

- SEAN TEUMA

SHE became one of Australia’s golden girls of the pool with an unforgetta­ble Olympics campaign in Tokyo.

Now triple gold medallist Kaylee McKeown is set to shine at Toowoomba’s feature race day.

The 20-year-old will be a special guest at Clifford Park for Weetwood Handicap day, and she can’t contain her excitement.

“I’ve never been to the races before. I’m so excited,” she said.

“I’ve always wanted to go but haven’t had the time or chance to make a weekend of it.”

Another aspect of the day McKeown is anticipati­ng is the fashion, where she will have a special role on the day.

“Myer is dressing me. It’s a bit springy and a bit younger looking, something suited to me,” she said.

“It’s a piece by Elliatt. It’s a cool dress and I’m super excited to flaunt it.

“I’ll also be judging the Laser Clinics Australia Fashions on the Field. Pick something fun, fashionabl­e, comfy and confident to wear.

“I just really want to see what Toowoomba has to offer. I’m excited to get behind it and see what the races is all about.”

The star swimmer has enjoyed a bit of downtime since returning back to Queensland after an amazing Tokyo campaign.

She said the support from the whole of Australia has been amazing.

“It hasn’t been too busy, it’s been really nice to have a bit of time to relax,” she said.

“I’m slowly starting to get back into the swing of things.

“It (Olympics) gave people something to do, especially because of Covid. It just drew them to the TV and really helped us as a nation to get up and cheer. It was exciting to watch.

“I definitely wasn’t expecting to go and do as well as I had done. I had so much support and even though it wasn’t in the grandstand­s, it was all there on social media and the support the team received was amazing.”

Former Home And Away star Lincoln Lewis will also be trackside for the big day, giving locals the chance to mingle with some big names on course. Weetwood day is officially a sellout, with the last remaining tickets snapped up early in the week.

There’ll be no shortage of entertainm­ent on course, with Bart Thrupp, Andrew Kucks, Riley Young and Vicki Q performing throughout the day, followed by Mick Lindsay on the front lawn after the last race.

One of the most anticipate­d events trackside is the Laser Clinics Australia Fashions on the Field, with finals starting from 1.30pm.

There are categories for both best dressed woman and man, as well as best head piece.

For those lucky enough to have secured their ticket for the big day, gates open at 11am with the gates to crash back for the opening race at 12.38pm.

 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Australia