Shepparton blanketed in sea of pink

SUNDAY’S Shepparton meeting is poised to be covered in a sea of pink – and for a good cause!

The provincial circuit is hosting its Pacing For Pink meeting, with plenty of action on and off the track.

Along with celebrating females – human and equine – within the industry, the afternoon supports the McGrath Foundation in its mission to raise awareness and funds for women’s cancer treatment.

Thanks to the hard-working and dedicated Pacing For Pink committee, a wide range of activities and fundraising events will be conducted throughout the day, with all money going to the Foundation.

A silent auction offering dozens of items is being conducted, with the list including a Phoenix Sulky, Ride High service voucher, FMT raw wheels, Western Bulldogs round 14 tickets, ‘home starter’ kit, portable BBQ, Rockwell gardening kit, dining experiences, golf day, fire wood and art.

There are also plenty of horse related items such as a nutrition hamper, vet vouchers, wormers, adhesive wraps and feed.

A raffle is also being conducted, with a $200 Wish Card as the main prize – tickets are only $5 or three for $10.

One of the most popular features of the day is the ‘High Tea’, which includes a glass of champagne on arrival followed by a traditional high tea dining experience, VIP raffle, auction and live music.

For the flamboyant, there is a Fashion on the Field contest, which includes four divisions – Lady of the Day, Young Race Goer, Junior Race Goer and Gent of the Day.

Speaking of fields, a Female Drivers’ Pace is part of the racing action, with Pacing For Pink organizer Donna Castles among the 12 reinswomen ready for battle.

Castles will partner the Jeremy Quinlan-trained Our Cheeky Devil, which has drawn awkwardly in barrier five.

“I’m looking forward to the entire day, especially the Female Drivers’ Pace,” Castles said. “Our Cheeky Devil has been in strong form, including a last start win, so hopefully we can make it back-to-back wins.

“Regardless of our finishing position, the day as a whole is shaping as a wonderful event.

“We’ve got so many things to do and enjoy, which has all been made possible by the hard work of our Pacing For Pink committee and the generosity of so many sponsors, which we just can’t thank enough.”