Summer Fun at the Races 2014

S U M M E R F U N AT

The Races

NOV 2014 – JAN 2015

Family fun at

Interislander Summer Festival ICONIC REGIONAL RACEDAYS

NZ’s LITTLEST BIG DAYS OUT

CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES

The ultimate Christmas party

MELBOURNE CUP

The race that stops two nations

SUMMER’S HOTTEST FASHIONS

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an invitation to join us The horses are restless, the greyhounds are ready to run…

Pack a picnic and bring the family for a day of fun, or glam it up for a big night out at one of racing’s premiere events this summer.

Even better do both, because the horses are restless and the greyhounds are ready to run.

On behalf of the New Zealand racing community, I’d like to invite you back for another great season of racing. Summer Fun at the Races is your guide to the exciting season ahead with information on key events and meets, as well as fashion, personalities and entertainment.

When you are on-course or taking a punt this year please know that a good portion of every bet you place goes back to supporting the racing industry. An industry that is a quintessential part of our Kiwi culture and one that is a major employer and contributor to our nation’s GDP. Summer racing is just what us Kiwis do. In fact, around 800,000 of us will be drawn to the thrill of a racing event this year.

See you there!

contents 04 The 154th Melbourne Cup

The race that stops two nations. We profile the Kiwis to keep your eye on.

08 Glamour Days

New Zealand’s biggest and brightest summer racing events.

10 Fashion Trends this Summer

Westfield show us the season’s best trends, and three Fashion in the Field judging experts tell us what they’ll be looking for this season.

13 Giving Back to the Community

New Zealand’s Racing Clubs play a valuable role in their local communities.

14 Christmas Parties at the Races

Looking for the perfect Christmas party event?

Look no further than Christmas at the Races.

18 Family Days at Interislander Summer Festival

With 39 events nationwide, this is the ideal way to enjoy a family day out over summer.

20 Iconic Regional Days

These are the days when the races come to town, and the whole town goes to the races.

GLENDA HUGHES, CHAIR NEW ZEALAND RACING BOARD | TAB

22 Quick Chat with Trainer Lisa Latta

The first woman to win the New Zealand Trainers’ Premiership gives us her thoughts on the industry and the best days to get along to this summer.

23 Terror to Love – Record Breaker?

Summer Fun At The Races is published by

We speak to trainer Paul Court about Terror to Love’s hopes of a record-breaking fourth win at New Zealand Cup and Show Week in November.

24 Miss Universe – New Zealand’s Next Top Greyhound?

BOX 331-667, TAKAPUNA, AUCKLAND 0740, NEW ZEALAND T: 09 486 6966 E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz W: www.oliverlee.co.nz

MANAGING EDITOR Oliver Lee EDITORIAL NZ Racing Board PROOFREADING Elise McDowell DESIGN/LAYOUT putting on the ritz, Dirk Jutzas, OnTime Associates Ltd PRINTING Webstar Masterton COPYRIGHT

Reproduction in whole or in part by any means is prohibited.

DISCLAIMER

The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.

We profile this promising greyhound and let you know how you can help provide a home for these affectionate pooches once they retire.

27 Raceday Hospitality – the VIP Experience

Find the perfect raceday package option for your group.

28 What I Do on Raceday

We get behind the scenes with three dedicated personalities of New Zealand racing.

30 Betting 101

New to the races? Here is a betting guide that will have you punting like a pro.

32 Competition: Your Chance to Win theraces.co.nz | 3

the 154th melb

the race that stops two nations

O

N Tuesday 4 November, at approximately 5:00pm, New Zealand will come to a standstill. For a little over three minutes, Kiwis will be glued to their screens to witness the 154th running of the Melbourne Cup.

It may be an Australian institution but the Melbourne Cup is a race that captivates punters on both sides of the Tasman. Perhaps that’s because it’s one of the richest and greatest races in the world.

Or maybe it’s because it has unveiled some of New Zealand’s

greatest horses, trainers, jockeys and fashionistas. The names Phar Lap, Lance O’Sullivan and Snowy Lupton are etched in New Zealand racing history. Here are some more Kiwi racing heroes that you should familiarise yourself with.

THE HORSE: SILENT ACHIEVER This six-year-old champion New Zealand mare has been in Australia since August campaigning for Melbourne Cup glory. Trained by Roger James out of Cambridge, she has a number of major wins under her belt, including The BMW Stakes, Ranvet Stakes, New Zealand Stakes, New Zealand Derby, Champion Stakes and Crystal Mile, earning a purse of over NZ$3,200,000. Hopefully, she’ll be one to keep an eye on this Melbourne Cup Day. Credit: Race Images

Credit: Race Images

THE TRAINER: ROGER JAMES He may have formally trained as a banker but Roger James followed his heart into racing and hasn’t looked back. He was recently inducted into the elite “1000 Club”, after celebrating his 1000th win in New Zealand. He’s also notched up 45 wins in Australia. Let’s hope he can add to the tally with a win from Silent Achiever come Melbourne Cup Day.

THE FASHIONISTA: CLAIRE HAHN Claire Hahn knows how to dress for success. In 2009, she won Prix de Fashion at Ellerslie, New Zealand’s Fashion in the Field grand finale, competing against other Fashion in the Field regional winners for this coveted title.

As part of her prize, she won a trip to the Melbourne Racing Spring Carnival, where she represented New Zealand in both the Melbourne Cup and Crown Oaks Day competitions, incredibly placing in the top 10 for both. Her success has continued with the launch of her own millinery line in 2013.

4 | theraces.co.nz

bourne cup Credit: Photosport

10 MINUTES WITH JOCKEY JAMES McDONALD

Credit: Trish Dunell

This year you’re riding in your third Melbourne Cup, what’s it like?

I’ve been to Royal Ascot, Singapore, Japan – nothing compares to the Melbourne Cup. You can’t even hear the starter, before the gate opens the crowd just erupts – you hear the crowd instead of the starter. Normally when you’re riding you don’t hear a thing, but during that race you feel like the crowd is sitting on top of you. The horses hear the crowd, they know what’s happening, it’s all about keeping yourself and your horse under control.

Describe the atmosphere in the Jockey’s Room?

It’s very intense. Usually there’s a bit of banter in the room on raceday, but before the Melbourne Cup you could hear a pin drop. Everyone’s a bit weird, I guess because they’re nervous.

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get nervous. Its nervous anticipation, I just want to get out there and do what I want to do.

How do you prepare? Do you have any rituals?

I’m very superstitious. I like using goggles that have already won a race. The whip as well, I’ll use a whip that I’ve had a lot of luck with in the past. I know exactly which one I’ll use for the 2014 Melbourne Cup.

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ABC BUSINESS SALES MELBOURNE CUP DAY AT WINGATUI Join the crowds at Otago’s biggest raceday.

Gates open 10:30am.

theraces.co.nz | 5

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glamour days A

DAY (OR NIGHT) SPENT AT ONE OF NEW ZEALAND’S PREMIER RACING EVENTS IS ON THE CALENDAR OF EVERY BUDDING SOCIALITE. THESE ARE THE COUNTRY’S BIGGEST AND MOST GLAMOROUS EVENTS; DAYS AND NIGHTS WHERE ELEGANCE ABOUNDS, WHERE YOU CAN NEVER BE “TOO DRESSED UP”.

They’re the country’s richest races, where the stakes are high and competition is fierce. It’s a chance to witness Australasia’s top equine athletes at the peak of their racing careers, battling it out for race supremacy and legendary status. These are the events where racing history is made.

Ellerslie Racecourse

Aspiring, elegant and unique, a day at a major racing event is a social extravaganza like no other. You’ll rub shoulders with the who’s who of racing, fashion, sports and media. Such an occasion demands finery, so you’ll want to plan your outfit ahead to ensure you look your best.

Riccarton Park

8 | theraces.co.nz

Trentham Racecourse

WIN tickets to one

of New Zealand’s most glamorous racedays!

Simply email your name and phone number to

competitions@theraces.co.nz, tell us which event you’d love to attend this summer, and we’ll pop you in the draw to WIN! You can choose from any of these five events listed below.

Competition closes 3 November 2014.

Visit our blog, Hoof to Heel, for competition details and terms and conditions. You can find Hoof To Heel at theraces.co.nz

Trentham Racecourse

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN – HERE ARE SOME KEY EVENTS FOR YOUR NOV – JAN “GLAMOUR CALENDAR” 8 –15 NOVEMBER 2014 New Zealand Cup and Show Week Addington Raceway & Riccarton Park

Renowned for the richness of its purse, the vibrancy of its atmosphere, the fashion and the glamour: this is New Zealand Cup and Show Week.

Style is at the forefront of this week-long celebration of spring racing with a number of fashion events lined up, as well as five big days of racing. There’s something for everyone throughout the week, but there are two days to really keep your eye on. Dress to impress and join the 20,000-strong crowd at Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup at Addington Raceway. Showcase your style on the Fashion in the Field runway during the week’s grand finale, Christchurch Casino New Zealand Cup and New Zealand Bloodstock 1000 Guineas Day at the beautiful Riccarton Park Racecourse.

26 DECEMBER 2014 New Zealand Herald Boxing Day Races Ellerslie Racecourse

24 JANUARY 2015 Platinum Homes Wellington Cup Day Trentham Racecourse

The Capital is renowned for its creativity and flair and nowhere is this more prominent than on Platinum Homes Wellington Cup Day. Cup Day at Trentham is where the fashionable head each January to watch the running of one of New Zealand’s biggest races under the summer sun. Join the crowds and revel in the colour and glamour of Wellington’s most celebrated day out.

25 JANUARY 2015 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million – Twilight Races Ellerslie Racecourse

Mingle with the fashionable and the famous this Auckland Anniversary Weekend at one of racing’s VIP events. This isn’t your typical long-weekend Sunday session; you’ll witness the running of New Zealand’s richest race, the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million. Dress like an A-lister, head to Ellerslie Racecourse and get set to party the night away.

Ellerslie Racecourse

The festivities continue with a fashionable twist at one of Auckland’s longest-running social institutions: Boxing Day at Ellerslie.

The opening act of the New Zealand Herald Christmas Carnival promises a day of high fashion, entertainment, socialising and the very best in thoroughbred racing.

Addington Raceway

theraces.co.nz | 9

fashion trends @Witcher y

@Jus t Jeans

#WHITEOUT Stand out from the crowd in white on white

@mi piaci

@Witcher y

@Witcher y

@l ovis a @cue

GE T rEady fOr racE day WITH THE l aTEsT sUmmEr lOOks nOW aT WEsTfIEld.

@Jus t Jeans

#TrIbal

Want to make what’s on trend work for you? Book a Personal Styling Session with a Westfield stylist.

Consider your look from tip to toe with ethnic inspired accessories in brass or gold @O verl and

@for ever new @Ver onika maine

#TrOpIcana Add a punch of fun to your look with vibrant prints @l ovis a

Visit westfield.co.nz for all these looks.

10 | theraces.co.nz

@Ver onika maine

this summer

Three Fashion in the Field experts reveal what they look for when judging this pièce de résistance of racing style and give insight into this season’s racewear trends.

Angela Stone

Natalie Chan

Annah Stretton

Fashion in the Field Coordinator at Riccarton Park for New Zealand Cup and Show Week

Designer, Milliner and Fashion in the Field judge at Wellington, Ellerslie and Te Rapa

Fashion Designer and Fashion in the Field judge at New Zealand Cup and Show Week, Alexandra Park, and more

Daywear should comprise of quality fabrics, ladylike lengths and tailored jackets. I’m hoping the classic midi-skirt will make a comeback as it’s such an elegant style.

Geometric prints will be trending this New Zealand Cup and Show Week and tangerine, mint, white and navy are the hottest colours this season.

Accessories should complement your ensemble and provide contrasting texture. When it comes to selecting a fascinator, don’t be afraid to get inventive! The real key to this year’s race fashion is to take classic styles and add an edge by giving each garment a modern twist.

Bright colours such as chartreuse, orchid purple and vibrant prints are on my radar this season. These colours look great styled with neutrals or pattern on pattern if you are braver with fashion.

I love the look of feminine full skirts with large box pleats paired with a chic top, adhering to proper racewear skirt lengths, of course – on the knee or below. Look for wide brims and interesting details, think modern contemporary meets vintage. Shoes should be polished and comfortable to walk in. Ladylike chic is the order of the day, rather than something you would wear to a ball or nightclub. Make sure your outfit is a reflection of your personality; a smile is your best accessory and – most importantly – remember to enjoy yourself!

I’m looking for the complete package, and yes, ladies, less will often be more (remove the kitchen sink).

Involve interesting shapes in headwear, a great shoe that draws the eye and shapes the leg, a great frock that’s not too short or too long or too dramatic, use colour and work them together (but don’t go overboard). Execute a total look.

All the add-ons are just as important as the core garments – shoes, bag, jewellery, hat and sunglasses. Just like a great floral arrangement, when it all comes together it simply needs to work… and it needs to say “WOW, I am a winner!”

ON TREND IN HAWKE’S BAY At the first carnival of the season – The Livamol Classic, Saturday 4th October

Sherylene Kohiti looked pretty in pastel.

Of the many wearing mandarin, Tanya Dickey was a stand-out.

White was a winner for Richard Wood.

Jules O’Flaherty rocked a beautiful, bold floral print. theraces.co.nz | 11

IT’S EASY TO BE PART OF THE ACTION

WITH A BIG RACE PACK All you need to do is choose a $20 or $50 Big Race Pack and pick your favourite horse – the computer will select the other horses for you.

THE BIGGER THE PACK, THE BIGGER THE RETURNS GET YOURS IN STORE OR ONLINE AT TAB.CO.NZ

Racecourses –

a part of your community Daffodil Raceday, Hastings Racecourse

W

hen popular racing personality Lisa Chittick passed away earlier this year after battling with leukaemia, it wasn’t long before her zest for life inspired members of the racing industry to join together in support of others affected by cancer.

Hawke’s Bay Racing and the New Zealand Racing Board came together with the idea of renaming the Makfi Challenge Stakes to Daffodil Raceday in order to raise awareness and funds for the Cancer Society.

With Hawke’s Bay Racing donating all gate takings, and tremendous support from sponsors and industry

NZ Army Open Day, Patterson Park (Westport)

supporters, over $20,000 was raised for the Hawke’s Bay Cancer Society.

This is one of many examples where Racing Clubs across New Zealand give back to their local communities.

It really is much more than horses for courses at tracks around New Zealand. Racecourses provide facilities for local social and sporting groups, events and competitions, training and function facilities.

Take the Westport Trotting Club, which hosts three racedays per year that have become ‘must-do’ events on the West Coast’s social calendar. Throughout the rest of the year, the racecourse is a valuable space for a number of community initiatives. It hosts New Zealand Army Open Days, and in the event of an environmental accident, the racecourse will be home to the Oiled Wildlife Recovery Centre. It also provides space for rugby club training rooms, local weddings and school balls. theraces.co.nz | 13

Alexandra Park

New Zealand’s best

Christmas party

CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES: IT’S AN END-OF-YEAR PARTY PLANNER’S DREAM. WITH OVER 50 EVENTS NATIONWIDE, THESE RACEDAYS (OR NIGHTS) PROVIDE THE PERFECT SETTING FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMAS PARTY. From the moment you step on-course, you’re transported to a Kiwi Christmas wonderland. Each hospitality space is transformed with beautiful festive theming: Christmas ribbons, table decorations and Santa hats.

In the Marquee Village and shared outdoor spaces, Christmas takes on a classic Kiwi spin. It might be the stunning weather, or the fact that for many it’s the first summer sporting event of the season, but there’s an unmistakable vibe of excitement in the air.

It’s a day to experience the thrill and excitement of racing. Whether you’re a racing newbie or a seasoned bettor, come the final race, you’ll be punting like a pro. And if lady luck isn’t on your side, there’s plenty of entertainment and action on-course to keep you entertained.

Live music sets the tone for a big day (or night) ahead, getting race-goers into the spirit of the season and creating an ambience of elation and fun. It’s the perfect mix of Christmas cheer and social 14 | theraces.co.nz

soirée to rouse the festive spirit inside. Eat, play and be merry – ‘tis the season to celebrate.

Christmas at the Races: Party planner’s perspectives Party planners from opposite ends of the country share their Christmas at the Races experiences. Enid Service works for Wilton Joubert in Auckland and organised her end-of-year work party at Alexandra Park Christmas at the Races. Phil Wilson and his team at AWS Legal in Queenstown partied the day away at Cromwell Christmas at the Races.

Why did your company choose Christmas at the Races for your end-of-year party?

Enid: 2014 will be the third year in a row that we’ve booked a Christmas at the Races party. We love it for the fun atmosphere and the chance to meet people, have a good time and go away with some money in our pockets (hopefully).

Phil: O ur firm sponsors the main event of the day (the AWS Legal Queenstown Cup) so it’s fair to say we have a vested interest!

Having said that, Christmas at the Races has become a tradition that we look forward to each year – it’s the perfect place to host our clients at a function that has a great atmosphere and lots of excitement.

“

CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES IS SUCH A GOOD VIBE. THERE ARE LOTS OF HAPPY PEOPLE ENJOYING THIS CARNIVAL-LIKE ATMOSPHERE.

Ellerslie Alexandra Park Pukekohe Park Te Rapa Cambridge

Tauranga Matamata Rotorua

New Plymouth Wanganui Awapuni Otaki

Hastings Waipukurau Trentham

Rangiora Addington Methven Riccarton Motukarara Geraldine Ashburton Cromwell Gore Ascot Park

Oamaru Dunedin

Te Rapa Racecourse

Tell us about your Christmas Party

Phil: C hristmas at the Races is such a good vibe. There are lots of happy people enjoying this carnival-like atmosphere. Everyone relaxes and enjoys the great weather. Our guests always have a great time (win or lose) and vow to come back every year.

Enid: We have a large group (40+ party-goers) so we secure a shared space to allow us to mix and mingle with other companies and race-goers. There’s a wide range of quality food and we get great feedback from our staff. Oh and it’s the girls, not the guys, who bet all night and go home with money in their pockets!

What was the highlight of your party?

Enid: It’s a great chance to catch up with our out-of-town staff, have a bet and start enjoying the festive season.

Awapuni Racecourse

Addington Raceway

Alexandra Park

Addington Raceway

Phil: T he highlight for me is presenting the Cup to the winning owner.

For others it’s backing a winner, winning a prize in the fashion show or the “singalong” in the bus on the ride home.

TO FIND A CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES EVENT IN YOUR AREA, VISIT THERACES.CO.NZ

Cromwell Racecourse

Cromwell Racecourse theraces.co.nz | 15

Welcome to NeW ZealaNd cup aNd ShoW Week!

It’s New Zealand’s biggest and most vibrant spring festival, and it all kicks off on Saturday 8 November. Tickets for all major events are on sale now at nzcupandshow.co.nz Christchurch promises to be packed full of colour, entertainment and exciting competition this year, and the city is rolling out the welcome mat for visitors from around the country. Over eight exciting days, there are activities and events happening across the city, including all your favourites, plus some stunning new attractions.

Whether it’s the pulse-pounding excitement of elite racing, the colour and creativity of the fashion field, or the family-friendly fun at the Canterbury A&P Show, make sure you’re part of this year’s New Zealand Cup and Show Week.

Tuesday 11 November Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup Day Westfield Riccarton Cup Day Style Stakes Thursday 13 November Buy Sell & Exchange New Zealand Greyhound Cup Friday 14 November Show Day Races

NZCUPANDSHOW.CO.NZ

#NZCUPANDSHOW

Saturday 8 November Sothys New Zealand 2000 Guineas Day Wednesday 12 November Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (Ladies’ Day) Saturday 15 November Christchurch Casino NZ Cup and NZ Bloodstock 1000 Guineas Day Fashion in the Field

For more information on all New Zealand Cup and Show Week events visit nzcupandshow.co.nz

CANTERBURY A&P SHOW

NZ HAT AND HAIR AWARDS

Wednesday 12, Thursday 13 and Friday 14 November

Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November

Canterbury Agricultural Park

Christchurch City Council Civic Offices

FASHION FOR A CURE

NEW ZEALAND PBR CUP

Monday 10 November

Thursday 13 November

Cardboard Cathedral

Horncastle Arena

Sun-soaked family memories at

Interislander

Summer Festival SUMMER’S ON ITS WAY AND EVERYONE’S STARTING TO THINK ABOUT HOLIDAY PLANS. IF A FUN FAMILY DAY OUT IS ON YOUR AGENDA, INTERISLANDER SUMMER FESTIVAL IS THE PLACE TO BE. Tauherenikau Racecourse Since 2006, Interislander Summer Festival events have brought family fun to some of the country’s most picturesque racecourses – from Ruakaka in the north to Gore in the south, and everywhere in between.

The events provide locals and visitors the chance to unwind from the Christmas rush and enjoy a host of family entertainment. And in true festival style, there’s no dress code; in fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to bust out those new Christmas jandals and throw on some shorts.

INTERISLANDER SUMMER FESTIVAL TAUHERENIKAU RACES Nestled beneath the Rimutaka Ranges, just a few minutes’ drive from Greytown, is one of Wairarapa’s best-kept secrets: Tauherenikau. This charming country racecourse enjoys postcard views of the Tararua Ranges and a true wine-country climate.

On January 2 and Waitangi Day, Tauherenikau will play host to events that attract locals, holiday-makers and day-trippers from Wellington in droves for the Interislander Summer Festival Tauherenikau Races.

At Tauherenikau, the More FM Kids Go Racing area lies to the south of the public grandstand where an array of free activities are scheduled throughout the day to keep under-12s entertained – from colouring competitions and goodie bags through to bouncy castles and face painting. It’s the perfect spot for kids to hang out, have some fun and make summer friends.

Just in front of the grandstand is the picnic patch; a large, grassy space where families can set up for the day. It doesn’t take long for the area to fill with picnic blankets, umbrellas, chilly bins and locals. With the kids off being entertained, mum and dad can kick back, relax and catch up with friends and family while they have a cheeky flutter on the gee gees.

A short walk from the picnic patch, delightfully shaded by Totara trees, is a stage. The lively tunes of a local band pump out across the grassy dance floor, filtering around the racecourse adding ambience to this family day of racing. Nearby, ice cream trucks and hot dog stands are kept busy with a stream of kids lining up for true Kiwi treats. Every half hour or so a cheer rises, followed by the thundering of hooves down the grassy straight.

Rangiora Racecourse

FAST FACT: Last season, 100,540 Kiwis were on-course at an Interislander Summer Festival event. Over 10,000 kids went home with a More FM Kids Go Racing Goodie Bag.

Tauherenikau Racecourse

This is where summer holiday memories are made.

For a full list of Interislander Summer Festival dates and locations, check out theraces.co.nz 18 | theraces.co.nz

Tauherenikau Racecourse

39 festival events this summer

Hastings Racecourse

Don’t just cross the Strait Cruise it.

Don’t miss out on your local Interislander Summer Festival event.

Take the car, the kids and enjoy some family fun at the races

interislander.co.nz

t

HEY’RE small provincial race tracks nestled in some of New Zealand’s most picturesque spots. Once a year, thousands of people from surrounding towns, cities and provinces congregate in these communities for an epic party. These are the days when the races come to town – and the whole town goes to the races.

PICTURED ABOVE KAIKOURA, HARNESS RACING NEW ZEALAND 20 | theraces.co.nz

SPEIGHT’S KAIKOURA TROTTING

On Marlborough Anniversary Day each year, the precursor to the New Zealand Trotting Cup takes place in the town made famous for whale watching. It’s an event that attracts thousands of race-goers keen to spend a long weekend in one of the country’s most beautiful spots. It’s a big day and the locals pull out all the stops to guarantee a great social atmosphere with fashion parades, entertainment and local fare galore.

There’s one thing that first-time race-goers at Kaikoura Trotting Club usually comment on: the colour blue. This country racecourse enjoys a mountain-meets-the-sea vista that you have to see to believe, where the shimmering blue of the Pacific meets a bright blue sky.

It’s overwhelmingly beautiful. And it provides a stunning backdrop to their annual raceday.

If you live in Kumara, or its surrounding provinces, Kumara Racing Club’s annual race meeting is one that’s permanently on your social calendar. It’s a community reunion like no other, where kids pop home from university and ex-West Coast residents come back for a long weekend to catch up, and have a pint and a punt. You’ll find a lot of what’s standard at race meetings – Fashion

You won’t find any pomp or prestige on-course at these events. This is one big all-inclusive, everyone-muck-in, fun in the sun, classic Kiwi day out.

It’s less about glitz and glamour and more about local unique style – where it’s not unusual to see guys pairing tuxedo jackets with gumboots and where local fare abounds.

Here are a few iconic regional events:

RACEDAY: FROM THE 1. CLUB SOUTHERN ALPS TO THE PACIFIC

RACES: 2. KUMARA THE BEST IN THE WEST

1.

Kaikoura

Kumara

2.

3.

New Plymouth

Images supplied by Race Images Images supplied by Fairfax NZ in the Field, live music, free kids entertainment and thrilling racing – but you’ll also find all that makes the West Coast unique, whether its food (West Coast whitebait and venison), music or good old fashioned southern hospitality.

Such is this event’s popularity, that this normally small community balloons to over 10,000 with punters arriving from 6am to jostle for the best spots.

DAILY NEWS 3. TARANAKI FAMILY FUN DAY:

WHERE FAMILY FUN PEAKS

Visitors to Pukekura Raceway get the best of both worlds. On the edge of the city, it’s the closest racecourse to a city centre in New Zealand and only a short walk from New Plymouth’s bars and restaurants. Its unique setting also showcases the sea and mountain views that make this part of the country so spectacular.

Pukekura Raceway runs a number of high-calibre racing events throughout the year but Taranaki Daily News Family Fun Day is a definite crowd-pleaser.

With everyone home for Christmas, crowds descend on the beautifullymanicured course to continue their Christmas celebrations. In the true spirit of the season, this is a day that’s all about family and friends with lots of activities to keep the young (and the not-so-young) entertained.

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KUMARA RACES

Saturday 10 January 2015

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Marlborough Anniversary Weekend

Saturday 27 December 2014

SPEIGHT’S KAIKOURA TROTTING CLUB RACEDAY

Monday 3 November 2014

TARANAKI DAILY NEWS FAMILY FUN DAY

theraces.co.nz | 21

This year you became the first woman to win the New Zealand Trainers Premiership as a solo trainer – what did it mean to you?

It meant a lot to me. It was something that I’ve worked really hard towards over the past three years and it is definitely the highlight of my career. I’ve got a lot of loyal staff around me that have been with me a very long time and they deserve some of the credit, too!

What advice would you give to other young women wanting to get into what appears to be a male dominant industry?

I wouldn’t say it’s so much male-dominant now, there are a lot of females doing well. Over the last 10 years a lot more women have joined the industry. I would say, don’t be scared to have a go and back yourself.

Credit: Trish Dunell

A quick chat with trainer

Lisa Latta

Join the part yday! b ook to

Another spectacular season of racing is now upon us. Which events do you like best – the glamour days or the smaller iconic meetings?

More the glamour days, the crowds, the atmosphere and better prize money obviously and quality racing! I love Wellington Cup Day because it’s one of my favourite racecourses.

For those that have never been to the races – which meeting shouldn’t be missed?

The Karaka Millions at Ellerslie in January – the atmosphere is electric. The twilight meeting has been very successful and it’s become one of the biggest, most exciting racing events of the year.

50 EVENTS NATIONWIDE NOV & DEC GET YOUR CREW ON-COURSE FOR A SERIOUSLY GOOD CHRISTMAS PARTY. Simply reserve your place, sit back and take the credit for your best soirée yet. We’ll plan, you party. Easy!

Visit theraces.co.nz or email info@theraces.co.nz

Credit: Race Images

Credit: Race Images

Terror to Love: Will he break the record?

ALL NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUPS ARE SPECIAL, BUT THIS ONE IS UNIQUE. NO HORSE HAS WON FOUR IN A ROW. If Terror to Love crosses the line at Addington Raceway in Christchurch on Tuesday November 11, he will cement himself as the greatest pacer in the history of New Zealand harness racing.

Paul Court and his dad, Graham, have trained their fair share of winners, but they’ve never had one like Terror to Love.

“Dad’s been in the game a lot longer than me and he’s had some nice horses along the way. But he hadn’t had any heavyweights. It’s taken a lifetime to get a superstar like Terror,” says Court.

fourth and creating history it takes it to a whole new level,” says Court.

So what are the attributes that make him such a star?

Terror to Love’s first Cup win three years ago was exciting enough, but what Court has on his hands this year is a phenomenon.

“He’s a showy wee bugger, but he’s got electric speed and it comes on at the flick of a switch, it’s not like he takes a bit of winding up. At the same time he can stay and not many horses have both.”

“It’s pretty exciting to have a Cup runner, let alone win it and to be able to win it three times is special. But when you start talking about winning it a

But winning a fourth Cup is not going to be easy, because there is no shortage of champions lining up in the field.

“Christen Me and Adore Me, potentially the Australian horses if they turn up. But at the end of the day it all comes down to the horse on the day and the New Zealand Cup is not an easy race to win – if you’ve got a start in the race you’re doing something right.”

This will be a battle unlike anything seen in 110 years of New Zealand harness racing.

Should Terror to Love cross the line first it will be a moment that Kiwis will treasure, when a fan favourite will become a national icon.

39 EVENTS NATIONWIDE 39 EVENTS NATIONWIDE 26 DECEMBER – 7 FEBRUARY 2015 26 DECEMBER – 7 FEBRUARY 2015

Where summer holiday memories are made Where summer holiday memories are made Interislander Summer Festival brings family fun to some of our country’s most picturesque racecourses, Interislander family fun deep to some of our country’s mostplaces picturesque racecourses, from Summer Ruakaka Festival up northbrings to Gore in the south – and many other in between. from Ruakaka upisnorth to Gore in the deep south –Summer and many otherevent placesisinthe between.

If a fun family day out on your agenda, an Interislander Festival place to be!

If a fun family day out is on your agenda, an Interislander Summer Festival event is the place to be!

To find an event near you, visit theraces.co.nz To find an event near you, visit theraces.co.nz

Miss Universe

New Zealand’s Next Top Greyhound?

THERE’S A HOT NEW GREYHOUND ON THE SCENE WITH A GLITZY NAME. MISS UNIVERSE IS A TWO-YEAR-OLD BLACK GREYHOUND TRAINED BY LISA AHERN OUT OF PALMERSTON NORTH AND OWNED

BY GORDON SCIBERRAS OF AUSTRALIA. Big things are expected of Miss Universe. If you’re a greyhound follower, you might be familiar with her mum, champion greyhound, New Zealand record-breaker and aptly-named Little Mother. 2010’s New Zealand Greyhound of the Year had a glittering racing career; she ran 132 races and had a record-breaking 85 victories and 27 places. She has six Group One races (they’re the big ones) to her name, including two Auckland Cups, the New Zealand Cup, New Zealand Oaks and the Waterloo Cup as well as the invitation 2010 Top Gun feature.

In 2012, Lisa and Gordon made a call to retire her after a recurring injury affected her racing. Nowadays, Little Mother – who goes by her kennel name Emma – is enjoying a sunny retirement in Australia, where her duties have changed from racing to rearing. In October 2012, Emma gave birth to her first litter of pups, including what is looking very likely to be racing’s next canine prodigy: Miss Universe. At time of print, this beautiful girl had won five of her six races.

Keep an eye out for Miss Universe at future greyhound race meetings.

Looking to adopt a dog into your family?

GREYHOUNDS AS PETS (GAP) IS A CHARITY THAT PLACES GREYHOUNDS COMING OUT OF RACING INTO HOMES AS PETS. You may think a greyhound is an unusual choice of pet, but they make surprisingly good companions!

Greyhounds are affectionate, intelligent and... extremely lazy. The incredible speed they achieve on the race track is breathtaking to watch; however, races last around 30 seconds and once the race is over, a greyhound is keen for a good lie down. This means greyhounds are easy to exercise – one quick blast around the park and they’re ready for a snooze on the couch.

Greyhounds are very gentle and a recommended breed for pet therapy.

Several GAP hounds visit hospices as outreach therapy pets, while others are involved in library reading programmes for children. They are generally quiet and that soft, short coat makes them easy to care for.

When placing a dog, GAP place great emphasis on getting the match right.

“The Greyhounds as Pets programme is like a dating agency for people and pooches, aiming to match the perfect companion with his or her prospective owner. With more than 1200 greyhounds adopted into families around the country since its launch in 2006 we obviously have the winning formula!” says Jacqui Eyley, Programme Director at GAP. Meet the greyhounds currently looking for homes and find out more about adoption at the GAP website www.greyhoundsaspets.org.nz and on Facebook at GAPNZ.

24 | theraces.co.nz

TAB IS PROUD TO SUPPORT KIWI RACING AND SPORT A portion of every bet you place with us goes back to funding Racing and Sport in New Zealand.

BEAUTY CAKE & SPONGE $36

ALSO AVAILABLE:

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Available while stocks last.

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OOKING to upgrade your raceday experience? Here’s a treat. Book a hospitality package and enjoy your next day or night at the races with colleagues, friends or family from a top spot on-course.

Skip the queues and enjoy the luxury of having everything at your fingertips. You’ll wonder why you didn’t think of this sooner. Each event has a unique range of hospitality options tailored to any group’s size, style and budget.

1. CORPORATE BOX

For businesses and groups looking to entertain in style, a day in a Corporate Box is hard to beat. Breath-taking views of the track as well as full hosting and catering services await from the privacy of your own space.

You’ll also have your own bar and nearby betting facilities.

2. MEMBERS’ STAND

Upgrade your raceday experience with a pass to the Members’ Stand. Perfect for couples and small groups, you’ll mingle with Club Members in a shared lounge that boasts sweeping views of the course. Enjoy the convenience of an exclusive bar and restaurant – and the opportunity to score a few tips.

3. SHARED SPACES (INDOOR AND OUTDOOR)

Perhaps the easiest and most cost-effective way to entertain your group, shared function spaces usually come equipped with a buffet meal and an MC to provide banter and tips. Shared spaces are a real social soirée, and with dedicated betting and bar facilities, they provide the perfect opportunity to mingle with other race-goers.

4. CHAMPAGNE LAWN

Fashionistas and socialites – showcase your style on the Champagne Lawn. These popular spaces are the place to see and be seen at major racedays. Located on a grassed area close to the action, you’ll enjoy the thrill of the races – and the fun of the on-course entertainment – all from one super-stylish central spot.

5. MINI MARQUEE VILLAGE

Positioned in a prime spot on-course, set amongst the action and excitement of raceday, the Mini Marquee Village is ideal for groups looking for a jovial and informal ambience. Securing your spot is easy: choose the marquee that suits the size of your group, plan your picnic or pre-book a catering package and get set to par-tay.

6. PICNIC PATCH/LAWN SPOT

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Riccarton Park, New Zealand Cup and Show Week

Alexandra Park, Christmas at the Races

RACEDAY HOSPITALITY:

the VIP experience Trentham Racecourse, Wellington Cup Day

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Addington Raceway, New Zealand Cup and Show Week

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Hastings Racecourse, The Livamol Classic

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Motukarara Racecourse, Christmas at the Races

Reserve a picnic patch and you can enjoy a bit of a sleep-in knowing you’ve reserved a front-row spot on the lawn. Rally your group together, pack a picnic and get set to enjoy a relaxing summer day. You’ll be in a sweet spot to take in the day’s racing and entertainment from a family-friendly social space.

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Riccarton Park, New Zealand Cup and Show Week

7. CAR PARK PARTY

If you’re a DIY picnic fan, this is for you. Skip the morning queues by reserving your own car park space. BYO gazebo and seating, and either pack a picnic or grab a meal on-course.

To see what’s on offer at your next racing event, check out theraces.co.nz or get in touch with your local Racing Club.

Tauranga Racecourse, Interislander Summer Festival

theraces.co.nz | 27

what I do on raceday

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lot goes on behind-the-scenes to bring race-goers a top notch raceday.

Three industry personalities describe what a typical day at the races looks like for them.

JACKIE NELSON

RACEHORSE OWNER AND BREEDER JACKIE NELSON IS ALSO GERALDINE TROTTING CLUB’S EVENT MANAGER, WHERE SHE’S RESPONSIBLE FOR ORGANISING THEIR CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES AND INTERISLANDER SUMMER FESTIVAL EVENTS. Describe a typical event day for you.

The day normally starts at 6am at the racecourse overseeing the placement of the final Christmas at the Races marquees that the team have been assembling during the night. This is usually the most stressful part of the day as we’re working against the clock to have everything in place before the crowd arrives! Once racing kicks off, there’s a constant stream of questions to deal with – sponsors, Fashion in the Field, corporate guests, caterers, live streams on the big screen, excited owners etc…

And then it’s clean up and finishing with a glass of something to wind down.

What do you enjoy most about a day at the races?

Personally – the horses and the people. I really enjoy the country meetings. Professionally, it’s the wee things like someone who has been on our waiting list to secure a corporate marquee telling us what a great time they had. We’re lucky at Orari Racecourse because it’s such a great location, which goes hand-in-hand with creating a great atmosphere.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Those moments during the day when you stand back and see how much of a good time people are having. And the thank-you emails after the event saying how much our guests enjoyed the day and how they’ll be back next year.

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MARK McNAMARA

‘VOICE OF THE SOUTH’ MARK McNAMARA IS THE CANTERBURY RACING COMMENTATOR FOR TAB TRACKSIDE AND TAB RADIO TRACKSIDE. How did you get involved in the racing industry and race calling?

It was in the blood from a young age. When most kids wanted to be a firefighter, I wanted to be a racecaller – I was probably a bit of a weird kid! From the age of 15, I started calling the trials (practice races) in New South Wales. When I was 18, I gained a cadetship with Radio Trackside’s equivalent in Sydney and after 21 years, I’m still enjoying being part of a great industry.

What’s a trick you use to remember all the runner’s names?

Talking to yourself before the race! Learning colours is important – it helps with word association.

When the jockeys/drivers first appear, I’ll start reciting the names of the horses in the upcoming race until I’m satisfied they’re locked in my memory. Sensing the weird child thing again?

What do you find most challenging about your job?

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The weather – calling in the snow at Methven and the fog in Addington made for an interesting night in the office.

JESS DAVIDSON

JESS IS A SELF-CONFESSED HARNESS RACING-MAD PRESENTER ON TAB TRACKSIDE. How do you prepare for a day on set?

Study, study and more study! You can never be too prepared and I know if I’ve done my homework, I’m able to cope with any last minute changes.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

Meeting the people in the industry – everyone has a story and it’s a thrill and a privilege to bring those stories to screen.

Best on-camera blooper?

A few years ago, I was doing a studio shift with a screen behind me to show live footage from our next racing venue. It was a greyhound race and the dogs were preparing for their race when one of them decided to relieve itself. Live on camera, it appeared to be doing a ‘number two’ – on my shoulder!

28 | theraces.co.nz

betting 101 HAVING A PUNT ON A HORSE OR GREYHOUND IS PART OF THE EXCITEMENT ON RACEDAY. IF YOU’RE NEW TO THIS BETTING BUSINESS, HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PLACING A BET AT THE RACES.

THREE EASY STEPS TO PLACE A BET HEAD TO THE BET AREAS

This is where you place your bet on-course.

You’ll find bet areas all over the racecourse; just look for the signs.

PLACE YOUR BET

Tell the TAB Operator which race you want to bet on, the horse or greyhound number, the type of bet and the amount you want to spend. Hand over your cash and that’s it! Your bet has been placed. Something to note – all bets are placed in $1 multiples starting at just $1.

WATCH THE RACE

Hastings Racecourse

The TAB Operator will give you a bet ticket.

Hold on to this – it’s a very important piece of paper. You’ll need it to collect your winnings after the race.

PUNT LIKE A PRO

WAGER A WINNER

CONFUSED ABOUT THE DIFFERENT BET TYPES? DON’T BE!

ALAS, THERE’S NO MAGIC FORMULA FOR PICKING A WINNER – EVEN THE EXPERTS DON’T ALWAYS GET IT RIGHT. BUT HERE’S SOME HANDY HINTS TO BEAR IN MIND NEXT TIME YOU’RE AT THE RACES. BACK THE ‘FAVOURITE’:

WIN: If your ‘runner’ (horse or greyhound) wins, you win.

PLACE: If your runner comes first, second or third, you win.

Although if it’s a smaller field (seven horses or less), then your horse needs to come first or second.

EACH WAY: This is a combination of a Win and a Place bet.

If your runner wins, you collect both the Win and the Place dividend.

If your runner comes second or third, you collect the Place dividend.

QUINELLA: Feeling lucky? Pick two runners to come in first and second (in any order). If they do, you win a dividend.

BOXED QUINELLA: To increase your chances of collecting, you can pay a bit extra to choose three or more horses. If any two of them finish first and second, you win the Quinella.

TRIFECTA: Feeling confident? Pick three runners to come first,

second and third in the exact order. (If you collect, you’ll definitely be buying the next round of champagne.)

BOXED TRIFECTA: Like a Boxed Quinella, if you pay a

bit extra, you can pick more than three runners, increasing your chances of success.

AKA the runners with the most money on them. Favourites are often considered to be sure-fire winners… Right? Not quite.

On average, favourites win about 30% of the time.

FOLLOW A WINNING JOCKEY (OR DRIVER, IF YOU’RE AT A HARNESS MEETING):

If they’re having a successful day, stick with them and chances are you’ll win, too.

GRAB A RACEBOOK AND LOOK AT THE RACEFORM:

It may remind you of maths class looking at all those numbers, but at the front there’s an easy to follow page that teaches you how to read the racebook.

GO FOR THE NAME, COLOUR OR NUMBER: Sure, it’s a long shot but sometimes long shots pay off. Right?

For more tips and handy hints, visit theraces.co.nz

FAST FACT: A ‘dividend’ is the amount the runner is paying for each $1 bet. You’ll see dividends on screens around the racecourse – the first amount listed is what the runner is paying for a Win, the second is its amount for a Place.

30 | theraces.co.nz

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BE IN TO WIN...

We’re giving away a family pass to the Interislander Summer Festival event of your choice, along with a Raceday Survival Pack.

To be in the draw to experience a fun family day out, follow these simple steps:

1 2 3

Race to facebook.com/theraces.co.nz and ‘like’ the page Find the post named SUMMER FUN COMPETITION at the top of the page Tag the friend or friends you’d like to take with you to Interislander Summer Festival and you’re in the draw! Easy!

Competition closes 03/11/14. Visit our blog, Hoof to Heel, at theraces.co.nz for terms and conditions.