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SUNSHINE and clear skies lured a large crowd to the Wodonga Turf Club’s Boxing Day races yesterday.
Between 4000 and 5000 enjoyed the casual atmosphere of the “beach in the country” event.
There was a new take on fashions on the field, with competitions for the worst Hawaiian shirt and best beach bod.
Simon Lewis, in Wodonga from Grafton to visit his grandmother for Christmas, was pleasantly surprised to take out the best beach bod contest, having considered himself “a dark horse”.
“I think it was the extra surface area that I have that got me across the line,” Mr Lewis said.
Following his win, Mr Lewis was keen to visit the region again, and return to the races next year to defend his title.
“This is a really great area, there’s a fantastic vibe here and I’ll definitely try to get back here next year.”
It wasn’t just the larrikins among the crowd who were having a good time, with nine-year-old Brooke McKenzie getting dressed up for her first day out at the races.
“I love seeing the horses coming past, it’s very exciting,” Brooke said.
Brooke’s mother Bridget Schilg was happy to spend the day out in the sun instead of in a shopping centre.
“This is a great family event, there’s a great calm and relaxed atmosphere here,” she said.
Columbian national Vanessa Balvin, who was visiting Wodonga with friend and local Chelsea Johnstone while on a break from their university studies in Melbourne, was enjoying a taste of real Australian culture.
Ms Balvin was feeling right at home in the relaxed country atmosphere, declaring the Wodonga races “better than the Melbourne Cup”.
“It’s so much nicer here, being able to wear thongs is really great,” Ms Balvin said.
“Everybody here is so friendly, I’m having a great time.”
Wodonga District Turf Club manager Brad Thomas was also having a great time, praising the well-behaved crowd.
“Everyone has had a great day here today,” Mr Thomas said.
“The party marquee has been a success, the kids entertainment has been a success, and the great weather has certainly helped us out.
“I couldn’t be happier with how it’s turned out.”