Daniel Torrington and Sarah Arkin, both of Queenstown,
toast the success of yesterday's Cromwell race meeting,
billed as the vignerons' race day. Photo by Lynda van
Kempen.
Thousands of people turned out for "Vignerons' Race Day"
at Cromwell yesterday keen to taste some local wines and cheer
on dozens of fast horses.
Staff in two marquees dispensed wine from about 20 wineries,
along with gourmet foods, and the first 500 people through
the gate got a "Famous Cromwell Races" wine glass.
With the temperature hovering around 23degC for most of the
afternoon, the Gallop South meeting had a picnic atmosphere,
with many families and groups of workmates taking the
opportunity to enjoy the entertainment and refreshments on
offer as well as watch the 11 races on the card.
Corporate groups were chauffeured to the venue, some arriving
in planes or helicopters, which landed on the air-strip next
to the racecourse.
Many punters settled back for the afternoon in marquees
around the outside of the track, while others lined the
inside of the track near the finish-line.
Sarah Arkin, of Queenstown, said it was her very first race
meeting.
"I've never been to the races before and thought I'd like to
check this one out. It's very cool," was the verdict.
"I haven't made much money but it's a great day out - nice
atmosphere, nice food and wine" she said.
Live music, a Fashions in the Field competition and free
children's activities were among the entertainment on offer.
The Cromwell races concluded a three-day sports circuit.
The Omakau races were held on Friday and then the focus moved
to the Cromwell Golf Course on Saturday for the annual Gallop
South Golf Classic.
Bookmark/Search this post with:
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.