Lockyer Valley Turf Club hosted a spectacular day of country racing at the One Response Laidley Cup on 30 March.
Six-year-old gelding Avenue of Stars barrelled to the post, trained by Jonny Field, and ridden by Jace McMurray.
At 17 years old, it was McMurray’s first race meet and although he placed 5th and 6th in his first two races of the day, he came through to with the Cup.
McMurray’s mentor Robbie Fradd said he was very proud of his performance.
“He’s so dedicated this kid,” he said.
“So today I was very proud of him and what he did.
“I’m very excited because his day didn’t start very well.
“His first ride he lost his stirrup iron out the barriers so that was a bit of mess, his second ride he got a bit too far back… so it was great for him to win, especially a cup race.
“That’s probably the cherry on the cake.”
It was also a successful day for the Lockyer Valley Turf Club’s fundraising efforts, who used the meet to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation.
President Terry Kirkwood went under the clippers for a cause very close to his heart.
“My daughter, at aged 21, was diagnosed with leukaemia,” he said.
“The Leukaemia Foundation helped us with accommodation, we didn’t have to pay for the unit or transport, which helped us.”
Kirkwood said he was very lucky to have Brooke, now 28, still with him.
“Each ticket sale today, $5 goes to the Leukaemia Foundation,” Kirkwood said.
“My goal was to raise $1,000 to get my head shaved.
“We’ve surpassed that by miles and miles and miles.
“I’d like to thank everyone who’s donated.
“If you’ve got a spare $5 or $10, it will make a difference.”
Race day sponsor One Response donated $10,000 to the foundation.
The club intend to continue raising for various charities or families in need at their future meets.
