The twilight meeting at Elwick on Friday 15 December will hold special significance for two Tasmanian trainers - Christine Crook & Walter McShane.
Both have long been a fixture within the local training ranks. They have also been long serving members of the Australian Trainers’ Association (ATA), dedicating well over two decades each to representing Tasmanian trainers at both State and Federal levels. They have made an outstanding contribution on behalf of the Tasmanian training fraternity during their ATA tenure, promoting racing and working tirelessly to improve the landscape for trainers in the ‘Apple Isle’.
On a personal level, Christine has experienced much success over her 40 years training. In recent times, Christine joined with Imogen Miller to forge a successful training partnership, with the highlight undoubtedly their 6YO gelding TSHAHITSI winning five races last season, including the Echuca Cup in regional Victoria, and culminating with the Winter Championship success at Flemington in July.
Walter’s training career has spanned five decades. His achievements are many, but two stand out - in racing, his 2YO BASTILLE BEGGAR became the first Tasmanian 2YO to win a metropolitan race in Victoria, way back in 1972! But the crowning glory for Walter occurred in 2013, when his 7YO gelding NORSQUI had an emphatic victory in the Adelaide Cup. Off the track, Walter has passed his extensive knowledge onto his son, Brendan, and has had great pleasure watching him develop into a successful trainer in his own right.
To honour Christine and Walter, a named race for each will be run at the Elwick Christmas race meeting.
I know all participants will join me as we congratulate Christine and Walter for their contribution to racing in Tasmania, and indeed, to the legacy that they have left behind which has helped shape racing for the better in Tasmania today, and for the years ahead.
Kind Regards
ANDREW NICHOLL
Chief Executive
