Daring to dream big
Everyone involved in the ownership of a horse dares to dream – to make the track, win a race or two in the bush and maybe even rise through the ranks to open company, the classic events and cups.
Barry, Yvonne and Aaron Dunn have been in the racing game for more than 40 years and have been lucky enough to experience one such ride of a lifetime with their pacer Dee Dees Dream.
It began in January 2002 when Dee Dees Dream debuted in a $1000 restricted event for two-year-old pacers at Warrnambool.
The youngster made short work of three rivals, leading from barrier to post to score by 13 metres in the leisurely mile rate of 2.09.3 over the sprint trip.
A moderate assignment by any measure, but it was the start of a racing career that spanned more than six years, until ‘Deedees’ retirement in August, 2008.
His record of 117 starts, 38 wins, 21 minor placings and stakes of $412,971 include success in a Vicbred Super Series Final, Victoria Sires Classic, Tasmanian Pacers Derby, 11 victories at Moonee Valley and multiple wins in Tasmania and South Australia.
Dee Dees Dream contested the 2005 and 2008 editions of the Horsham Pacing Cup, but finished out of the money on both occasions.
“It’s hard to win a race anytime anywhere,” Barry Dunn said.
“But even more so with the country cups in Victoria.”
While the Dunn’s don’t have a hometown cup in their trophy cabinet they continue to live the dream and every year bring new youngsters into the stable.
“We’ll enter Shady Azz and Sporty Azz in the two-year race in Horsham on Sunday,” Barry said.
“They probably won’t be good enough to beat the better bred ones going around, but they need the experience and it will stand them in good stead for when we find something more suitable.”
So like the Dunns, Horsham Harness Racing Club encourages family and friends to pack a picnic rug, hamper and Esky and enjoy a great community event, on the spacious lawns of the Horsham Racing Centre this Sunday.
Club president Justin Lane urged people to make the most of free entry during the event.
“For the first time on cup day, the gates will be open free of charge and patrons will be greeted by tin rattlers for the Naked Farmer’s nominated charity, Royal Flying Doctor Service Mental Health Unit,” he said.
“Apart from all the action out on the track, you’ll enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with live music, sweeps, giveaways and prizes including a chance to win $4000 in the Dunn Ezy Seed Cleaning ‘Ownerforaday’ competition.
“There’s plenty of free activities to keep the kids entertained.
“The jumping castle, gladiator ring, giant slide and basketball throw cater for all ages, and one lucky youngster will win an Ipad mini.
“So get your backside trackside – seeya Sunday!”