Rain holds off as Ballina’s Boxing Day Cup goes down to the wire
Ballina’s Boxing Day races again lived up to their reputation as one of the town’s most anticipated summer events.
Despite the build up of storm clouds, the rain stayed away and the day delivered exciting racing, a strong crowd and a relaxed family atmosphere.
The field for Race 4- The Ballina RSL Class 1 and Maiden Plate won by Monarch Express (3) , ridden by Dylan Turner and trained by Jordan Lee
The full six-race card proceeded on a track presenting in excellent condition.
The feature event, the 100.9 ZZZFM Boxing Day Cup, provided a fitting highlight to the afternoon.
Eight runners went to the post after four late scratchings, producing a compact and tactical contest over 1415 metres.
Cowgirl Lilly, trained by Samantha McGuren and ridden by Dylan Turner, prevailed in a tight finish, edging out Husson’s Revenge by just 0.13 lengths.
He’s Viral finished third, two lengths back, as the reduced field remained closely bunched throughout.
Earlier on the card, favourite Ainsley opened the meeting in style, winning the Merry Christmas Maiden Plate under Karl Zechner.
Come On Glamour claimed the TAB Benchmark 50 Handicap, while Monarch Express took out the Class 1 and Maiden Plate.
Mishani Suspect closed the program with a strong win in the final event, rounding out a competitive Boxing Day meeting.
Ballina Jockey Club general manager Joanne Parmenter said the day was about more than racing, with families, children’s activities and community connection all part of the experience.
Above: Ballina Jockey Club Chief Executive Joanne Parmenter with ZZZ and 2LM Station Manager and breakfast personality Callum Jones
Right: Big Dog and Noah’s mini golf provided plenty of family entertainment
“Boxing Day racing remains a fixture on Ballina’s social and sporting calendar and today has once again again showed why it holds such a special place for locals and visitors alike,” She said.
The meeting also marked the start of a busy summer period for the club, with another race day scheduled for January 9 ahead of the Ballina Cup on January 16.
With crowds in good spirits and the track holding up well, Parmenter said Boxing Day had set the tone for a big month ahead at the Ballina Jockey Club.
