Galloping glamour

SUNSHINE, plenty of punters and glamour galore made Oaks Day a clear winner at Pakenham.
The fashion was fresh and feisty, the racing fast and furious and Pakenham Racing Club officials were thrilled with the success of the event last Thursday.
Almost 3500 people attended the meeting in just its second year, entrenching it alongside the Pakenham Cup has one of the biggest drawcards on the local racing calendar.
Sponsor marquees lined the racetrack as businesspeople entertained guests and celebrated the spring carnival in festive style.
A bright, breezy atmosphere prevailed with officials saying the event easily lived up to expectations.
“It was a success in every way,” racing manager Michael Hodge said.
“It was a fantastic day, we had great support from sponsors and local businesses and racing people and residents.”
The Fashions on the Field was a major drawcard with almost 150 entries, including more than a dozen men in the newly created gentlemen’s section.
People celebrating hen’s parties, 21st birthdays and the end of school shared the spotlight with mums and dads and fashion gurus whose outfits turned the picturesque racecourse into a blaze of colour.
Assistant racing manager Michelle Tones said just about everybody on course was dressed up.
“It was sensational, people really went to a lot of trouble,” she said.
“It was great to see so many locals make an effort and it is going to be even bigger and better next year.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves, we are very happy.”