Beautifully dressed racegoers filed into the immaculate grounds of the Wellington Racecourse over the weekend in what set the scene for the 2018 Wellington Boot.
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Wellington Race Club president, Ian Darney, said the attendance rate was well up on previous years with around 3500 people passing through the gates.
People travelled from across the state to attend the highly-regarded event which attracted quality trainers and even an international jockey.
But the makings of this quality country race meeting didn’t stop there, with fashion momentarily stealing the stage on Sunday afternoon.
The detail of some fashionistas who entered the Fashions on the Field competition was so divine judges couldn’t separate them, as was the case of the Best Dressed Lady (35+) category which was split between a Wellington local and a visitor from Young.
Carmen Gaim of Wellington and Young’s Renee Lyzun shared the title as announced in front of the healthy crowd on Sunday.
Their success was shared by 2018’s Best Dressed Lady which was presented to Josie Anderson of Cobar who frequents the Fashions on the Field stage.
Tommy Jeffs of Canowindra took out the Best Dressed Man category, looking especially dapper in his blue suit.
The Best Dressed Filly (13-18) for 2018 went to another local in Kate Parkes from Wellington.
Mr Darney said the well-dressed crowd topped his expectations across several levels, commending racegoers on their efforts in appearance and behaviour.
“The crowd was well behaved, and that’s paramount,” he said.
“It was just a good few days racing with plenty of visitors to the town and that’s what it’s about for us, trying to promote our town and bring a bit of a boost to the economy.”
It is the laid back atmosphere and breathtaking serenity which Darney believes makes this particular race meet one of the most popular in regional NSW.
Throw in the Cloud Nine Bar and a rocking band and it is no wonder the Boot continues to grow in popularity each year.
“The people that we were talking to thought it’s unique because of the country feel to it all,” Darney said.
“It’s the country atmosphere – the grass, the sun, the grandstand – it’s just unique in the way that it’s just a very laid back atmosphere and you can be pretty casual.
“All the visitors to the town thought it was a great few days racing, it brings a lot of people to the town which was pretty much all booked out.”
The president thanked his hard-working committee for their commitment and dedication in making the event the roaring success it continues to be.
“My committee work really hard, I’m fortunate to have a really hard working committee and other people come out and volunteer their time as well,” Darney said.
“The track was tip-top and we have a unique settings with Mount Arthur in the backdrop, so the town is lucky to have this facility.
“A big thanks to the committee and volunteers, including the ladies who come over and do the roses, but particularly to the committee including Jared Wykes who all work hard.”
