HORSE RACING
By LIAM DURKIN
DON’T forget the little guys.
Latrobe Valley Racing Club is set for the new racing season.
The club, based at Glenview Park, Traralgon, held its season launch earlier this month.
Unlike other Gippsland racing clubs, Latrobe Valley is run entirely by volunteers, and has just two race meetings per year.
The Glenview Park track however still gets good usage for trials, while the complex overall is home to many community events and initiatives.
Racing across Gippsland is also a united front. Latrobe Valley receives support from Moe Racing Club, who’s ground staff are on hand to lend their expertise and equipment.
True to form for a volunteer club however, Latrobe Valley Racing Club Chairman Frank Bezzina had the apron on at the club’s launch, ducking out of the kitchen to do his welcome address.
His wife Wendy was on the door, while fellow committee member Ian Davison was behind the bar, and Phil Gibson alongside Frank in the kitchen.
Phil’s son and club honorary member, Sam hopes to be back on deck soon, helping on the track following a spate of injuries.
Patrons watched a promotional video showing a new partnership between the club and Crown Hotel, Traralgon, which is set to be the afterparty venue for this year’s race meetings.
You might not want to leave the daytime party however. Latrobe Valley Racing Club’s Danielle Daniel is preparing another standout marquee.
Also scattered on tables at the launch were old racing books.
The name John Darling frequented most of them. The late Darling was president of the then Traralgon Racing Club for many years. He was also a former footballer with Morwell Football-Netball Club.
“A true gentleman who was widely respected and admired, John was a valued member of our 1961 premiership team and went on to play 100 senior games for the club,” the Tigers posted in tribute.
“Earlier this year, the club was delighted to welcome John back to present his former No. 6 guernsey to his grandson, Hugh Dunbar, prior to Round 1.”
Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron was present at the racing club launch, and encouraged locals to back the small club.
“The club holds two major race meetings being Derby Day on October 31 and Traralgon Cup Day on November 29 as well as holding many trials,” he said.
“We are so lucky we have two incredible race venues in the Valley that play vital roles in our communities.
“It’s going to be an exciting time for everyone involved with the club and more importantly all the racegoers showing up to enjoy both days.
“Big thanks to president Frank Bezzina and his incredible volunteers who work so hard to keep the facility in top shape all year round.
“Get ready for a great spring carnival coming up and please get out and enjoy this fantastic club!”
