"It is just awesome! The country championships fairy-tale captures the hearts and minds of all racing people. It gives grass roots racing folk a chance to compete on the biggest stage. We just wanted to be a part of it!", stated John Kelly.
In addition, Newhaven Park's Kelly family will be hosting a cocktail party,
each year, for all competitors and connections at their famous watering-hole,
The Doncaster Hotel at Randwick on the eve of the Final. The Country Championships offers $1.6 million in prizemoney and was developed to include horses trained in country areas in the Sydney Autumn Carnival.
The series, which commences Sunday 18 February at Port Macquarie, includes: seven qualifying races worth $150,000; a 'Wild Card' race of $50,000 and a $500,000 Country Championships Final.
The 2017 Country Championships Final witnessed enormous support from all corners of New South Wales and succeeded in bringing the heart of country racing to the city.
The Final was won by the $31 outsider Free Standing in a fairy-tale finish for Coffs Harbour trainer, Cathleen Rode.
News from Newhaven Park
