SUNDAY’S opening pony trot race saw eight contenders line up, but Just a Rumor, driven by Jemma Glynn, missed the start, while the other competitors trotted off their marks swiftly.
Back-markers Blaze (Amber Formosa) and Super Mario (Keeley Formosa) hit their straps early and kept on the pace heading out of the back straight.
Super Marley and Holly Phillips, together with Buddy Boom Boom and Evie Sealey, led the field around the bend and into the home straight.
Congestion on the bend saw a few of the ponies restricted for a run home, with Slim Dusty (Amity Formosa) taking the outside running, Jerry (Nicola Bowditch) through the middle, with Dark Temptation (Jorja Glynn) in hot pursuit.
With 50 metres to go Super Marley had a strong lead and went on to win, but closing the gap quickly, Blaze and Jerry battled it out for the minor placings, Jerry officially announced as second place-getter in a tight photograph finish, from Blaze.
They were closely followed by Slim Dusty, Super Mario, Dark Temptation and little Buddy Boom Boom, with Just a Rumor bringing up the rear of the field.
The 2019 Young Driver of the Future race was next up, with a rug presented to the winner from the generous sponsors.
Re-handicapping of a couple runners ensured a close finish yet again.
Marnee Formosa picked up a drive on Slim Dusty, with all ponies away smoothly.
All drivers appeared to drive with more vigour and tactical moves were aplenty, with the smallest gaps an avenue to make a run home.
Stylish pair Just a Rumor and Dark Temptation finished at the rear of the field, not far behind Buddy Boom Boom and Super Marley.
Slim Dusty galloped at the hands of Marnee Formosa and will need to improve next week to remain eligible.
Again Jerry and Blaze battled for the minor placings, this time with Blaze finishing in second, ahead of Jerry.
Keeley Formosa and her reliable pony Super Mario took the win and therefore Formosa was named 2019 Driver of the Future.
Both races were a credit to handicapper Barry Carraill, with tightly contested finishes and all ponies crossing the line in a relatively close group.
Saturday, January 19 sees the running of the Pony Trot Gold Cup and Calcutta.
Children on course can enter to go in the draw for a pony in the race and the child who draws the winning pony will take home a prize.
Entries are to be dropped in the box at the secretary’s office.
