By all accounts it was one for the record books.<\/p>\n
A couple of thousand punters from all over the country \u2014 and the globe \u2014 spent an idyllic day in Glenorchy on Saturday making the most of the annual Glenorchy Races, which celebrated its 64th anniversary.<\/p>\n
Unlike other race events, the Glenorchy race day has kept true to its rural roots from the beginning. Horses are identified by spray-painted numbers on their hindquarters, punting is via equilisator betting in which tickets are available with letters of the alphabet covering the number of horses starting in any race, and dividends are only paid out for winners. The racetrack itself is also the township\u2019s golf course and rugby field, among other things.<\/p>\n
As for the actual races, they, too, are tried and true.<\/p>\n
A total of 10 races were held, including a relay race, the ever-popular double banking, a stockman\u2019s race, and the quarter mile sprint, attracting entrants from all over the lower South.<\/p>\n
While many chose to soak in the atmosphere and watch the entertainment, some could not help but get involved in the action.<\/p>\n
Along with age-group running races, the highly competitive adults\u2019 tug-of-war again proved popular \u2014 this year that title went to the Balfour Young Farmers, who decimated their competition.<\/p>\n
Net proceeds from the entry fee from the day will go towards community groups and projects at the head of the lake.<\/p>\n