IT’S A MARQUEE NIGHT FOR TANYIA

THROUGHOUT the ages there are three golden rules to remember.

Firstly, always play at least two spinners in India, three if at all possible.

Secondly, when playing rugby league, if you win the toss always run with the wind at your back. You never know if it will die down in the second half.

Thirdly, never ask or divulge the age of a lady.

While rules one and two must be obeyed, the third can be broken if the lady in question releases the information of her own accord.

So here I go:

After the win of Aztec Bromac, a proud part-owner with a beaming smile, said to me that she hoped he could win again next Saturday night.

“I’m 85 next Friday and that would be a great birthday present,” said Tanyia Harris OAM.

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: Tanyia Harris (left) with reinsman Rob Morris, trainer KerryAnn Turner and Club Menangle racing officer David Wonson after Saturday night’s win by Aztec Bromac.

The five-year-old son of American Ideal has given Tanyia and her co-owners a number of thrills to date, with the win on Saturday, his 14th from just 60 starts.

After a period of having little luck this preparation, Aztec Bromac was able to take advantage of a better draw and a perfect drive, courtesy of Robert Morris in posting a solid win.

“I won a few dollars on him tonight, but I only have a small bet,” said Harris.

“It’s all about the fun of seeing your horse race, the chance to be with friends for a night and enjoying their company.”

Recognised as the ‘first lady’ of harness racing, Tanyia proudly, and rightly so, had no hesitation in disclosing her milestone.

Despite the presence of a walking stick these days, Tanyia remains an active and devoted harness racing identity, attending every Saturday night meeting (looking resplendent) while being the first there on a Monday or Tuesday afternoon.

Rain, hail or shine.

And, always with a smile and a warm greeting.

A staunch supporter and long-time friend of the Morris family (Peter, Margaret and their kids), Tanyia enjoys her involvement with Lucky Lodge and, is always full of praise for the way they look after her horses.

“Robert (Morris) and KerryAnn (Turner) are both hard-working and so dedicated,” she said.

“They deserve all the success that comes their way and I’m delighted with the way Aztec Bromac performs.

“It gives me so much joy.”

An astute businesswoman, a dedicated charity worker and a long-time harness racing enthusiast, Tanyia has been highly-regarded in the region over a long period of time, and was a driving force in the redevelopment of the Menangle track and its surroundings.

Hence, the naming of the Tanyia Harris OAM marquee.

The first female to be honoured as a Life Member of the NSW Harness Racing Club, Tanyia will no doubt be surrounded by family and friends come Saturday night, and regardless of whether Aztec Bromac wins or not, as long as he does his best, a great night will be had by all.

Tanyia, on behalf of the National Trotguide, and your extended harness racing family, have a great 85th birthday, and may there be many more.

Plus a few winners along the way.

-By Michael Ko Cass