Moonee Valley, "Sunline" Valley & Happy Valley

What a pity for 6,000 people who missed out on one of the elite moments in sport, right up there with "Bonechrusher", "Kingston Town" and the best mare I’ve seen since "Let’s Elope", actually the best mare I’ve seen. The 6,000 is the amount of people fewer in the crowd as compared with 1999. I’m sorry for Moonee Valley’s sake, as they are a real people's club. They always have a go, try new concepts and are totally devoid of the elitism that seems to poison peoples view of some racing committees. They are fortunate to be led by one of the most sincerely likeable men on earth, Geoff Torney. Behind every good man is a good woman but in Geoff’s case he has two. Firstly his lovely wife Mrs. Torney and secondly the pioneer of ladies on racing committees, Kerrie Gillespie. This is a committee who isn’t afraid to mix with the broad cross-section of people and in doing so they understand the people's needs. They again had to fight the elements and I’m sure it was only the weather that kept a larger crowd away. Well done Moonee Valley you served up a great product once again!

In the ring the punters jumped to the front in the 2 year old race when "Develan" won convincingly and ran favorite in a poor betting race. Steve Englebrecht "Humperdink" gave us some relief when "Top Slice" won Race 2. Race 3 was Donna Dior and with Damien riding fairly solid in the market but better than the favorite "Tanith". "Skalato" was solid and a poor result, "Shot of Thunder" is still warming up for the Derby and finished nicely against the trend!

Race 5 was heaven sent when Craig Williams showed why he is an international success on "Oregon Seal" - what a beautiful ride. "Falvelon", well we thought it was under the odds and paid the price. Then the Main Event, it hurt, but it was almost like paying a fee for seeing a great race. I watched her after the presentation as she pranced back up the race. The girl strapper was gleaming, the crowd was clapping, "Sunline’s" neck was arched like a noble steed that she is.

She was cocky and proud. It crossed my mind at the time that when she does go to stud she’ll demand the best and so she should!!

Race 8 was "Weasel Will", late in betting he was one of the best backed horses of the day. Favorites were becoming contagious, yes "It’s Contagious" favorite in Race 9 was next and the pain had set in!

Too good punters!! The last was some relief when "The Shiner" won so there is still something left in the bag.

All in all, it was well done again and congratulations Moonee Valley.

See you at Flemington

Happy Punting! A.D & J.D