RACING INTO THE NEW YEAR: Spectators were treated to a great day of racing in Murtoa yesterday to bring in the new year. Jockey Nick Mehmet on Bush Barmaid is pictured leading the pack in race two. Picture: AYESHA SEDGMAN
BREDLIGN was a runaway winner in yesterday's $10,000 Emmett Motors-John Deere St Mary's Marma Cup at Murtoa.
Murtoa Racing Club director Majella Ballantine described Bredlign's eight-length win as one of the best on record.
"Jockey Paul Marks rode a terrific race. Bredlign took the lead at the 800-metre mark and never looked like being beaten from there," she said.
"The eight-length win was one of the biggest margins we've seen in a cup race on this track for a while."
Bredlign is trained by Naracoorte's Sue Murphy.
"It was good to see Sue win. She has been a long-time supporter of our club," Mrs Ballantine said.
Defending champion Fraaclase, ridden by Kate Walters and trained by Sam Turner, finished second.
It was Fraaclase's 113th start.
Haluva Storm, trained by Stawell's Terry and Karina O'Sullivan and with Linda Meech in the jockey's seat, finished third.
Mrs Ballantine said the Murtoa track attracted a lot of praise.
"We've had lots of good comments from various jockeys and stewards about the excellent condition of the track," she said.
A big crowd celebrated the start of the new year at the races.
Mrs Ballantine said 1100 people
attended an increase on last year's event.
"It was a great day - we had perfect weather for it," she said.
"It was good to see lots of families at the track.
"They were kept well-entertained throughout the day. Camp Australia did a fantastic job with children's activities."
Mrs Ballantine also thanked all sponsors for their support, making special mention of major sponsor Emmett Motors.