It’s the perfect time of the year for a picnic, and attendees at the Yea Racing Club would know that better than most.
The highlight of the pre-Christmas picnic racing meeting on Sunday was the running of the annual Reddrops Foodworks Sister Olive Handicap over 3000m, the longest race on the picnic circuit.
The bad weather stayed away, and on a perfect track, All Too Creedy trained by Seymour trainer Don Dwyer raced to an easy win despite never having been tried at the distance before.
It was a masterful ride from leading jockey Sean Cooper, who got the horse to settle well before coming from behind to win.
Other racing highlights were the doubles from trainer Aileen Vanderfeen and jockey Craig Kirkpatrick, who won the first and last races on the seven-race card.
The Yea St Pat’s Cup winner Willetts showed his affinity for the track by winning the first.
Deel of Fortune easily won the trophy three over 1600 metres to take him into open company for his next start.
The day was a delight for patrons, especially the children, who enjoyed free Kelly Sports activities, pony rides and face painting.
There was also a surprise visit from Santa with his sack of treats.
The adults enjoyed the perfect weather, with many groups having Christmas breakups at the races.
Yea Racing Club is looking forward to the Nutrien Ag Solutions Yea Cup over 2140m on Saturday, January 20.
The event is another big family day, with several children’s activities in addition to the annual Fashions on the Field competition, which has eight categories, for toddlers, adults and couples.