A huge crowd braved the sweltering conditions to watch Imperial Lad take out the 2024 Moama Bowling Club Echuca Cup on Sunday.
In stark contrast to last year’s event where rain delayed the start of proceedings, the 2024 edition saw the heat protocol enforced and races begin at 10.45am.
Recently-appointed Echuca Racing Club manager Jarratt Farley said the day was a success despite the high temperatures.
“It’s been a fantastic day and we’ve had a healthy crowd despite the weather with really good numbers,” he said.
“Obviously with the earlier start due to the weather, we were worried there would be more cancellations, but we’ve had a great result and a very enjoyable day.”
The mercury reached 35°C about 2.30pm, although that didn’t deter patrons, with many travelling from far and wide to enjoy Echuca Racing Club’s marquee meet.
Friends Justin McCusker and Lisa Watts made the trek all the way from Geelong to enjoy the day’s festivities.
“I am originally from Ireland, but we’ve come up from Geelong. We try to come every year to enjoy the long weekend,” Mr McCusker said.
Ms Watts said the pair had enjoyed the luck of the Irish.
“We are loving the heat, the drinks have been cold and we’ve backed some winners, so no complaints,” she said.
Faye Burton, also from Geelong, joined a group of friends from Ballarat in enjoying the trackside action.
They were very happy with the seats they claimed early in the day close to the fence.
“We are definitely enjoying the day. It’s hot but there’s a lovely breeze where we are sitting,” Ms Burton said.
“We managed to snag some great seats right at the front here, so we won’t miss any of the finishes.
“We’ve been coming here for decades and we absolutely love it.”
While the on-track action was the main attraction, many families enjoyed the variety of kids’ events held through the day.
Brett Hampton and his family travelled from Melbourne, making a day of it as they enjoyed the long weekend.
“The whole set-up is great. The kids have already had a chance to ride the mechanical bull and get some temporary tattoos, so they’re having a blast,” Mr Hampton said.
“We’ve got a holiday house in Moama, so we love visiting. We try to come to the races every year.”
Melbourne’s Lauren Wood arrived with a wedding party which was recovering from a big night at Radcliffe’s Function Centre.
The group anticipated a relaxed day.
“We’ve come from a wedding last night, so this is our recovery day,” Ms Wood said.
“It’s almost too hot but it’s definitely manageable. It’s a great way to spend some quality time with friends.”
As always, the fashion off-field was of a high standard. Annette Sanfilippo and her group of friends were no exception, all adorned in fascinators designed by Ms Sanfillipo herself.
“I am a milliner and am here today with my lovely friends,” Ms Sanfillipo said.
“We try to come up a couple of times a year to get right to the core of racing fashion.
“From a fashion perspective, everyone looks great. There is such a lovely ambiance with the locals enjoying themselves.
“Anything goes today. There’s elegance across the board, everyone looks fantastic and they’re all showing their colourful personalities in their own way.”
Those who stuck it out despite the heat were treated to a brilliant ride by Tongala apprentice jockey Rose Hammond, who thrilled the crowd with a win aboard Mr Saxabeat in the Perricoota Station Handicap.
The 21-year-old thrives at her local track, having claimed her first double on Echuca Cup day last year, and said it was always a highlight to race in front of friends and family.
“It’s very exciting. This is definitely my favourite race day of the year, lots of friends and family around to support me,” she said.
“It’s a great atmosphere today, lots of people always show up. I’ve been really looking forward to this.”
Echuca trainer Rhys Archard was among those celebrating success, recording a first-up win in the Eden Family Reunion Maiden Plate with Qubella.