On Sunday, passionate harness racing enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the 100th anniversary of harness racing at Gunbower. The event featured a VIP lunch, speeches from industry representatives, and memories shared by racing legends who have participated in the longest harness racing track in Victoria spanning 2,630 metres.
The family-friendly atmosphere provided free entry and inflatable excitement for children, as well as modern luxury facilities for adults. Volunteers were present to share their generational traditions of family participation, creating a welcoming atmosphere for new racegoers.
The racing itself was both technical and entertaining, with close battles to the finish. During race five, the saveourbacon.com.au Gunbower Centenary Trotters Cup, Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, presented the winner’s cup to Baxter NZ. Baxter NZ performed strongly throughout the race. On the final straight, four horses and their drivers finished strongly. However, it was the eight-year-old Baxter NZ that held off a late charge from Tripod NZ to win the race in 3:25.500, much to the surprise of the owners.
Gunbower hosts two harness racing events annually, with all club positions held by volunteers.
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This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 22 February 2024.
