Glamour and gambling at the races

Glamming up for the races is a tradition and one which will give the winner of the Fashion in the Field at Whakatane Racing Club Summer Racing carnival a weekend in Melbourne.

Opotiki mother Karlene Connor said going to Te Teko for the race day was a last minute fashion decision.

"My husband had the day off work so we decided at the last minute to come to the races. And you have to glam up for the races, don't you? So I just wore my favourite designer, Annah S. I always feel dressed up in her tops."

Although Mrs Connor knew there was to be a fashion parade she felt too shy to enter it but her husband talked her into it.

It was a wise move. She won a weekend away from Holiday World of Travel to a destination of her choice.

The couple have chosen Melbourne. Mrs Connor said she has not been to Australia for 16 years.

"I guess there will be a lot more shops in Melbourne now - I am glad I dressed up and let my husband push me on to the stage."

In the grandstands, the punters' successes were more varied.

Among them was 69-year-old Gordon Schroder of Onepu, who was enjoying the atmosphere - and a few wins.

"I always follow the country races. I have for years, but I like Te Teko.

"It always has a good atmosphere and good gallops."

Mr Schroder said he has visited the big city race courses, without having so much fun as the country courses. But wherever he goes it is a case of knowing the form and history of the horse and trainer to select the winner.

Families held their picnics under marquees and tents while the kids had an array of free entertainment from novelty rides, face painting, bouncy castles, and wagon rides led by clydesdales. A favourite with the youngsters was a slight twist to the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs story - the cast arrived on horseback.