Sport
18 December, 2025
Locals shine as racing returns to Stawell
The Stawell Racing Club returned with a bang at their Gift Hotel Christmas Race Day last Saturday, with locals not only winning races, but a strong crowd supporting racing back in Stawell.
Linda Meech had a strong day, riding one winner and two second-place finishes. Meech won aboard the Aaron Purcell-trained Ruscello in the Stawell Times News maiden plate, saluting by 0.4 lengths.
In race four, she combined with Purcell again to finish second on Van Roy, and it was the same story again in race five aboard The Daily Planet.
Jockey Sarah Field combined with local trainer Dane Smith in race six to win on board Take The Prize by two lengths.
The day was a major success for the Racing Club, not only on the track, but off it as well.
Alongside local wins on the track, they had full fields in all races, and the track raced tremendously, and the track staff did an outstanding job to present it the way they did.
A vibrant young crowd enjoyed the day as 1215 patrons went through the gates for the race meeting, with plenty of local businesses enjoying their Christmas parties at the races.
Santa Claus arrived on his horse, Crackers, and met the kids in the mounting yard.
There was a giant big screen broadcasting races from across Australia to keep everyone entertained between races.
John Brereton also kept racegoers entertained, playing music throughout the day.
Racing Club Manager, Penny Penfold said that the day was well received and credited Aaron Resuggan and the track staff for their great work on having the track in pristine condition.
“The kids loved Santa Claus riding on Crackers the horse, so it was very exciting,” she said.
“Aaron and the track staff did a great job presenting the course in the condition they did.”
“The feedback we received was that the day was hailed a success and we are looking forward to doing it again.”
All roads now lead to the Lakeside Tourist Park Halls Gap Cup on Sunday, January 4 at the Stawell Racecourse.
Read More: Stawell