Community
24 April, 2025
Celebrating 40 years since a legend retired
RACING will return to Terang next Monday evening as the Terang Harness Racing Club eyes the celebration of the 40th anniversary of one of the sport’s brightest stars.
The free-to-enter event is expected to host eight races on the night, depending on nominations, from 6.30pm at Dalvui Raceway.
The occasion will mark 40 years since the retirement of Gammalite, a legendary colt which went on to become one of the industry’s brightest stars.
Gammalite was among the first horses to be enshrined in the Victorian Harness Racing Media Association Hall of Fame in 2009.
Trained and bred by Terang’s Leo and Maureen O’Connor, Gammalite became one of the most successful harness racing colts the world had seen – including becoming the first Australian standardbred horse to win $1 million in prize money.
From his 179 starts, Gammalite earned 94 wins and 53 seconds.
Gammalite’s accomplishments included being named 1982 and 1984 Australian Harness Racing Horse of the Year, a three-time Australasian Pacers Grand Circuit Champion and a two-time Inter Dominion Pacing Championship winner.
“The main race is The Gammalite which we have annually as the feature race of the program,” Terang Harness Racing Club president Chris O’Connor said.
“That’s the feature race honouring Gammalite’s legacy around the district, and this year it’s 40 years since he raced so it’s a bit of recognition.”
Mr O’Connor said there would be plenty of excitement both on and off the track.
“We’re going to have a panel between race four and five with Terang racing personalities David ‘Radish’ Drever and Kerry Clarke,” he said.
“They’re going to preview the Warrnambool May Racing Carnival, which starts the following day.
“They are funny guys so it’ll be a lot of fun.
“We’re going to, as part of the event, auction a ticket for two in to the committee marquee on grand annual day, which will provide six hours of food and drink.
“We’ll live auction it so we’re predicting a lot of interest because it’s a pretty good prize.”
The club may yet be handing out a hefty sum to those smart, or lucky, enough to pick five winners from five races as Rafferty’s Pick Five has jackpoted to $1500.
Mr O’Connor said he hoped to see plenty of people head to the track to support the Terang Harness Racing Club and the future of harness racing in country towns.
“It’s a good opportunity to support the club, and a good way to start race week on the eve of the May Racing Carnival.”
To book seats or tables you can contact Mr O’Connor directly on 0429 954 265 or contact the club on 5592 1785.