Geraldton Gold Cup: Geraldton Turf Club celebrates last hurrah of the season as longtime servants honoured

Race fans turned out in good numbers as the Geraldton Gold Cup celebrated an end to the local racing season on Sunday afternoon. In what was the first season since 2019 without COVID restrictions families and punters took advantage of the terrific weather on offer to enjoy what was a thrilling day of racing. Adam Durrant, who was named trainer of the year, had a dominant day with jockey William Pike, who took the cup by a nose aboard Come Right Back, on his way to four race wins for the day. “I cut my teeth in the Nor-Wet when I was a young fella and a jockey and I still spend a lot of time up here in the Mid West,” Durrant said. “Coming up here is something I really do enjoy and the track up here is one of the best tracks to race on in WA.” There was plenty of entertainment away from the track with live music, kids entertainment and food and drink on offer. No race day is complete without some stunning outfits as the final Fashions on the Field was held with local Mignenew farmer Fiona Cosgrove taking home first prize, backing up her win at the Mingenew Cup with Leanne Mott and Christy Poulsen finishing first and second runner-up Jaymee Pattrick was awarded the Spirit of the Mid West award, while Rochelle Gilstrap took home best millinery piece. The final race day was also an opportunity to recognise the tireless contributions of club supporters with the unveiling of a plaque honouring what will be a new outdoor, alfresco area in the names of Paul and Annette O’Brien. “Paul O’Brien is a life member of the club who started as an official here in 1965 and fulfilled multiple roles until recently retiring well into his 80s,” the club said. “Annette is from a family steeped in WA racing and both have been passionate supporters as an amazing couple, owners officials and trainers over the years.” The plaque was unveiled with the help of club chairman Brian O’Dwyer who was surprised with being afforded his own life membership to the club. “Thank you to the club and my committee I’m not sure what to say, I am lost for words,” he said. “It’s been a privilege to serve you over the years and I really do appreciate this thank you one and all.”