Punters enjoy a day at ‘the Bool’

DESPITE the threat of possible rain, and cool weather, a large crowd gathered at ‘the Bool’ for day one of the May Race Carnival on Tuesday.

Some of the friendly faces greeting racegoers at the track entrance.

Punters have been making their way to the Warrnambool track for the three-day racing carnival since 1873 when the first Warrnambool Cup was held.

A bucket list item for jumps racing enthusiasts and those that crave that country racing feel, the carnival is a true celebration.

This year, across the three days, 23 flats races and seven jumps races, along with the internationally-acclaimed Grand Annual Steeplechase (first ran in 1872), were hotly contested.

Speaking with the Warrnambool Weekly at the track on Tuesday, former Warrnambool resident Tony Dunne said “the Bool” is a favorite on the race calendar for many.

“As the saying goes, how good is the Bool?” he said.

“I lived her for 45 years before moving up north, to Buderim, in 1996 but keep coming back to the race carnival each year; it’s something you don’t want to miss.

“The Bool is something special; it’s unique. Everyone is friendly and welcoming, it’s a great place to not only watch some great racing and have a bet or two but to also meet new people and have a chat.”

Friends Toby Richards, Thomas Irwin and Josh Cami travelled from New Zealand for the carnival.

“We just thought, why not? We flew over on Monday, will come for three days then fly home Friday,” Toby said.

“It’s a great atmosphere; should be a good few days.”