Fred Muir reckons in the ''60 odd'' years he has been involved with the Hawea Picnic Racing Club he has had a go a every job except secretary.
Yesterday, it was his turn to keep an eye on the races as a judge.
''Depending on the race, it can be pretty easy or if it's close and no clear winner, that's when I guess you come in to it, as a judge you have the final call.''
Held at the Hawea Flat Domain in warm conditions, about 1500 people lined the sides of the race track with sun umbrellas, picnic blankets and a cold drink to watch a mixture of racing styles.
The volunteer-run event raises money for community projects in Upper Clutha.
Part of the event's appeal was people wanted a nice place to take their family for a fun day out that did not ''cost the world'', he said.
Mr Muir said he would be back next year and so would his wife, Judy, who is also a volunteer.
''It's a wonderful occasion and it's a bit of living history. There used to be about six of these type of meets in Central and now we are the only one left.''
Despite the meeting being held for more than 70 years, Mr Muir said the he did not know if it would last another 20.
Changes to alcohol licensing and health and safety had gone too far and meant a lot of the fun had been taken out of the day, he said.'
''If they're not careful, they will kill it off.''
But as long as people kept showing up to have a good time, the event would be held, he said.
''I've never missed one and I don't plan to either.''
