“We were really happy with the crowd,” she said. 

“While we can’t confirm numbers yet, it was above our expectations.” 

The $30,000 Murtoa Cup was the first feature cup of the season, marking the start of spring racing. 

“Personally I think it is nice to start the spring carnival with the relaxed atmosphere of the smaller clubs,” Kirkpatrick said.

“Those club’s that are not funded work tirelessly to put the day on which makes it worth going to. 

“It really epitomises country racing.” 

Jockey Linda Meech stormed home in a thrilling feature race victory on Pemberley. 

The Ciaron Maher-trained Pemberley had no trouble cruising to the finish line. 

Master Zephyr claimed second place while Diamond Duke secured third. 

A soggy start to spring did not put off race-goers as they made the most of the day. 

Kirkpatrick said the weather did not put a damper on the day. 

“The few showers we had held off until later in the day which was fantastic,” she said. 

Kirkpatrick said bar sales were up and food stalls were well received by patrons. 

“We had a wagering turnover with the bar sales up,” she said.

“All of our food vendors were happy and pleased with the day.” 

Carly Crouch was the Lady Of The Day in the popular fashions on the field. 

The cup’s new family focus included a jumping castle and pony rides to entertain the children. 

Kirkpatrick said she would like to thank the volunteers and sponsors. 

“The committee and the volunteers on the bar and the gates made it a great day to start spring racing.”