THE Charters Towers Amateur Race Club was awash with activity on Saturday during the annual Amateur race day meet with people coming from all over the North.
The crowd really got into the spirit of the day, cheering their horses home to the post, while having a great time with mates.
The five race program featured some strong fields and very tight finishes in the last three races of the day.
And the fashions on the field competition showcased the work of some very talented local designers, with many eye-catching designs on display.
In the Charters Towers Amateur Cup it was local trainer/owner Bill Hetherington’s Likefatherlikeson ridden by Michael Cullen who prevailed in a photo finish over the Ben Williams trained Whatanexcuse ridden by Graham Kliese.
The Williams/Kliese team dominated the day overall though with two wins and two second place finishes. They were deservedly named the most successful trainer and jockey of the day.
To view the gallery of photos from the day, click on the photo below.
Charters Towers Amateur Race Club president Karl McKellar said according to the gate taking numbers were down slightly of the 2013 event, but he was still very happy with the numbers considering the tough economic situation many are facing at present.
“It was great to see so many locals and out-of-towners come out and support the races, the committee really appreciates their continued backing even in the hard times,” McKellar said.
“It was also very pleasing to see the local trainers and owners winning or placing in the majority of the races,” he said.
“I’d like to say a special thank you to our sponsors who continue to help make this great event a reality every year, and also the race club committee for their diligence and hard work.
“We hope to see everyone back in 2015.”