LIAM DURKIN
HORSE RACING
By LIAM DURKIN
THERE was traditional elements in a non-traditional setting at the Moe Cup last Friday.
The Moe Racing Club’s day of days went ahead, but had to do so without crowds for the second year in a row.
Despite this, patrons still flocked to get their racing fix, with a large contingent converging on neighbouring Apex Park to get close to the action.
Sticking with tradition, gloomy conditions presented riders and officials on Moe Cup Day, however, the clubs all-weather sand based StrathAyr track, rated a Heavy 8 for the entirely of the meeting, again received praise from industry professionals for the way in which it allowed the meeting to go ahead as scheduled.
In summing up the meeting, Moe Racing Club chief executive officer Shane Berry said all was positive except for the no crowd factor.
“Overall we were really happy we got through the meeting no problem, the track raced well as always,” he said.
“All the trainers praised the track and said it was Victoria’s best kept secret.
“There was some great racing, a lot of close finishes and a lot of favourites getting up.
“It was a great day for racing, great day for the club, but really disappointing we couldn’t have a crowd … really disappointing for the second year in a row.
“We are really looking forward to getting crowds back to Moe Cup. It felt surreal (not having crowds).”
All going well, the Moe Racing Club will be welcoming spectators and racing lovers back for its Christmas meeting on December 17.
By then, it is hoped 5000 people will be allowed to enter provided they are double jabbed.
“That should be a big event with everyone just wanting to come out of hiding,” Berry said.
“We’re pretty confident that one will go ahead so we’re really looking forward to it.”
