Emma Pritchard
More than 1200 racegoers took advantage of the autumn sunshine on the weekend and headed trackside on March 5 as the Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) hosted their annual Yamba Golf and Country Club Blues, Brews and BBQs race day.
Featuring live entertainment by Raku One O’Gaia, Greg Nunan and The General Jacksons, and the Barnes Storm Show, along with plenty of children’s activities and a seven-race program, CRJC Chairman Graeme Green said he was pleased so see so many people enjoying themselves at the races.
With the track rated a Good 4 and the rail in its true position, punters and bookmakers quickly settled into the serious business of studying the form guide and fluctuating the odds accordingly as families found relaxing spots to sit in the shade and enjoy the ambience of the occasion.
Consistent galloper Barney Rabble gave jockey Benjamin Osmond a debut winner during his first appearance at Grafton, following a strong on pace performance in Race 1, the Book Tickets @ Graftontickets.com.au Class 2 Handicap over 1000m.
While he admitted the plan “wasn’t to lead” during his post-race interview, Osmond said getting away with “cheap enough sectionals up front” allowed his mount to keep kicking strongly inside the final 200m to draw clear for a convincing win over The Light Fandango and Alenia.
There was mild concern following the running of Race 4, the Yamba Caravan and 4WD Centre Country Boosted Maiden Plate over 1200m when the Greg Howells trained mare Pennies Destiny stumbled at the top of the home straight and dislodged jockey Kasie Stanley.
Both horse and rider were later cleared of serious injury, but Stanley was stood down for the remainder of the program.
There was plenty of cheering following the running of the feature event of the day, Race 5, the Yamba Golf and Country Club Yamba Cup Benchmark 58 Handicap.
Trained in Armidale by Lea Selby, New Zealand bred gelding Nature Boy (NZ) demonstrated his toughness and tenacity under jockey Chris Taylor to lead all the way throughout the 2200m event, to win by more than a length on the line from 40/1 outsider Wicked Games and a gallant Pratten Park.
Following a last start win at his home track over 1900m on February 20, Nature Boy (NZ) took his career earnings over $113000 with his most recent victory and has been a model of consistency for his connections.
During the presentation, CRJC Chairman Graeme Green acknowledged Graham Noland from the Yamba Golf and Country Club and thanked the local business for their ongoing sponsorship of the annual race day and the Yamba Cup.