Grand Opening

July 18th, 2008 by Paul Courts

Without doubt the recent Grand Opening at Menangle Park was indeed a Grand Opening.

The crowd was electrifying, the racing was breathtaking and everyone involved had a justified reason to slap themselves on the back.

Long before the big day, Menangle was touted as the future of harness racing not only New South Wales, but Australasia.

So far it has lived up to all expectations, with eight national records falling during the first two meetings.

Those benchmarks include Smoken Up's 1:51.9 for the pacing mile, Good Lookin Girls mares' mark of 1:53.7 and Earl Of Mot's 1:56.2 trotters milestone.

While those achievements have been well-publicized, the dust has settled on other aspects of the track's resurgence, adding more weight to the circuit's stance as the best in the Southern Hemisphere.

One of those focus points is the betting turnover, which was strong to say the least.

Figures made available show more than $400,000 was laid with bookmakers on course during the Super Sunday program.

Leading satchel swinger, Bill Trotter, described the scene in the betting ring as "reminiscent of the old days."

Punters were a buzz, plunges were made and betting was first rate.

"It was a really strong ring at Menangle," Trotter declared.

"You could get on for whatever you wanted, no one turned down a bet.

"I held more than $100,000 for the meeting and I know everyone of the bookies was happy with the day's transactions."

Trotter, who has been posting odds for almost two decades, believes Menangle's world-class 1400-metre circumference will continue to entice punters.

As the track settles and those looking to have a bet become familiar with how the races appear to unfold, Trotter can see a steady growth in turnover.

"Menangle has already created a lot of faith in punters and I think it will continue," Trotter said.

"The long straight has cut out a lot of the hard luck stories and punters will become more confident after a few more meetings are held there."

While a lot of focus has understandably been on the 'new', Trotter said the 'old' is far from a spent force.

Referring to the New South Wales Harness Racing Club's metropolitan home - Harold Park - Trotter has also witnessed an increase in activity at the Glebe venue.

"Betting has been on the up at Harold Park recently," Trotter declared.

"Just the other week, I took a bet from a prominent owner of $10,000 to $2000."