A double victory for Stawell trainer Dane Smith highlighted Saturday’s Stawell Christmas races.
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Smith’s horses Tre Dieci and Our Dexter won races four and six respectively in a successful last meet of the year at Stawell.
Stawell Racing Club operations manager Mark Percival said the day was “fantastic”.
“The crowd was similar to last year which we were happy with,” he said.
“There was a great atmosphere – it had a real community feel to it. We had plenty of activities including a photo booth and water slide which were extremely popular.”
The race day was sponsored by local business Gift Hotel. Business owner Peta Duns said it is important for her business to show its support of community events.
“We love supporting anything local that brings people to town,” she said.
“It was a very enjoyable day for everyone.
“Recognition needs to be made to the Stawell Racing committee, especially for their hard work in making the day so family friendly.”
The day was made even more special for both Ms Duns and her husband Gary, with one of Smith’s winners coming in the Todd Duns Memorial.
Todd Duns was the son of Peta and Gary and was a strapper before he passed away. Ms Duns said it meant a lot to have a local trainer win the race.
"It was very special for us that Dane won Todd’s race,” she said. “Dane contacted me afterwards and said how honoured he was to have won the race.”
Smith’s two victories continued his recent run of good form. he has had three winners in five days, after not having one since September.
Percival said the day was a great way to finish a strong year of racing at the track.
“The track and facility were presented in magnificent condition by Chris Grayham our track manager,” he said.
“The day is also well supported by the Gift Hotel which we really appreciate.”
View all the photos from the 2017 Stawell Christmas Races at www.stawelltimes.com.au/sport