Gympie Cup a crowd pleaser
IT was all action from start to finish at the Action Auto Group Gympie Cup races on Saturday at Gympie racecourse, with a big crowd enjoying what's fast becoming the most popular race day of the year.
And why not, when there's some $53,000 in prize money to be shared around, which means a premium day of country racing at its best.
Gympie racing commentator Barry Fitzhenry said there was a massive turnout of more than 2000, making it one of the biggest race crowds on record.
As well as a picture perfect weather and beautiful horseflesh, the Fashions of the Field, compered by Gympie Turf Club committee member Merv Welch, was hotly contested.
Judged by Amanda and Peter Allan of Action Auto Group, the lure of great prizes attracted about 30 entrants.
Jellina Penn won the ladies' competition ahead of Lisa Underwood in second place, and Lynda Guy in third place.
Best-dressed couple were the elegant Craig Brown and Tara Jefcoat, just a nose in front of runners-up Steve Wilson and Amalia Dan.
Gympie Turf Club president Spencer Slater said it was another very successful race meeting, with about 50 members of Brisbane's Tattersalls' Racing Club attending as special guests on the day.
It was the first time the group had enjoyed a Gympie race day and they went home with some great memories of a genuine country race meeting.
“They came along to support country racing,” Mr Slater said.
He added that they were very impressed with the facilities and the considerable size of the crowd.
