1^st place –  $1000  -EW tipping Baille
2^nd place –  $600 – Horsham Rockets
3^rd place –  $300 -EW Tipping Warunda
Last Place – $100 – Wood and Crete

Tuesday 10^th September 2019
60 people on course

As the Great Chase roadshow keeps rolling, this week the passion and excitement of watching the greyhounds was heard across Victoria’s wheat belt, when Horsham hosted the seventh chase in the 2019 series. Participants came from all over western Victoria to the Horsham GRC to vie for the prize money but yet again, the dogs – and the chance to socialise – were the real attractions.

Colin and Russel came from Ararat with the team from Manna Gums Nursery and Wood ‘n’ Crete, on track for their 15^th year. They explained the day holds more than just racing for their charges; it’s chance to socialise with old mates.

“The guys make connections with other groups and make lifelong friends at the greyhounds; that keeps us coming back year after year” said Colin.  “The day is so great, and we use any winnings to expand the program and provide more day programs.”

The Ararat groups had to be content with the $100 consolation last place this year, which is earmarked for more socialising. “We have a partnership with the Halls Gap Zoo, so the winnings will go into more tickets for the guys at the day programs” said Colin.

Heather and her Warrack Warriors were also back this year; spurred on by a big win in 2018.  She was keen to let us know how they spent their winnings. “We went to the Great Chase final at The Meadows and arranged to stay overnight, so we could have 2 days out.”

“The social aspect of the day is the best part, the participants have made friends with the other groups, so it’s a chance to catch up and have a great meal and a night of fun at the greyhounds. We love it.”

The big winners of the day were the EW Tipping Foundation (Baillie). Group members Sandra and Jon were excited to be walking away with the top prize of $1000. “We love coming to the greyhounds, we get to have good food and get free showbags” said Jon.  Sandra added “Watching the dog’s race is the best.”

Carer Meredith said the $1000 will go towards the group. “We leave it to the participants. We put it back to them to choose what to do. They’ve been talking about heading to Ballarat to go and see a stage show, so maybe that!.”

Compiled by Phil Weir and Ben Pritchard.