Laura Inglis, 10, is cheered on by team mate Nikita Aitkenhead, 10 and sister Kiera Inglis, 9, during the ‘kids go racing’ moon hopper event held at the races on Friday. Photo: Sinead Ogilvie.

Sun shines on race days

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Thousands of people turned out for the Nelson Harness Racing Club annual summer meet over the weekend.

From the fashionable to families, the two days of racing entertained over 7000 people in the sun over two days. The horses were only half the fun with people enjoying picnics, contests and entertainment throughout the day and Nelson Harness Club President John McKenzie says the popular event was a huge success this year.

“We were absolutely thrilled to bits with the support of the event by Nelson people and holidaymakers. The grandstand was chock-a-block and it was great to see families enjoying themselves.”

Event organiser Chris Butler says the event was a huge success, with fantastic weather adding to the atmosphere and numbers up on last year for both race days.

“Seeing everyone having a great time was a highlight, people were having a lot of fun and it was enjoyed by all,” he says.

Friday’s Best Hat competition, won by Carol Merrilees and her homemade creation, was a great prelude to the popular Fashion in the Field event held on Sunday.

Winner of the Best Dressed Female category  was Sarah Earwaker, 17, of Brightwater who won $1000 in Richmond Mall vouchers and $200 worth of Oxygen skincare product as part of her prize. She says she never expected her outfit, inspired by “a classic race day look” to win. “I was shocked but it was so fun.”

Sue Newport who attended the races on Friday says she was “really impressed” with the event and the entertainment on offer, having been to larger race events while living in Christchurch. “It’s really nicely put together and family focused. I like how much they have put on for the kids. It’s brilliant.”