Club Racing Operations Manager Mark Percival said it had all come together well.

“We were very lucky with the weather and it has been a fantastic day of competitive racing,” he said.

“Of course having a local trainer win the cup – and an up-and-coming trainer as well – is just a fantastic boost for the industry in the district.”

Numbers through the gate were said to be exceptional on what was the first cup meet organised by Percival at the club.

“I can not thank the committee – led by Ian Nicholson – enough for all the help they have given me because a lot of hard work goes into preparations,” he said.

“A couple of times I took a moment just to go out and look at the crowd and to see what a great time they were having.

“There were smiles on so many faces; to know that as a club can put on an event like that is very gratifying.”