The summer holidays mean one thing if you're the racing reporter at the Otago Daily Times - race meetings galore. Matt Smith went to eight race meetings in 13 days, and reports his findings from the tracks of Otago.
December 26
Otago RC at Wingatui:
With Christmas Day's lamb, ham, bacon, eggs, beer and wine (I got a little carried away at the supermarket) still sloshing around in the stomach, I arrive at Wingatui to a gorgeous day of sunshine. The racing lives up to the weather, with the listed open sprint producing an outstanding contest, won by Miss Seton Sands.
One to follow: Ruby Row - a 3yr-old of immense promise based on her run in race 3.
Top tip: The ban on BYO seemed to have little effect on a happy crowd and it's a perfect meeting for kids. PS: Always back the kids in the tug of war - they swarm from everywhere to beat the adults.
December 30
Kurow JC at Kurow:
The light drizzle on a firm track is a major concern as I turn in to the racecourse - and a walk across the birdcage doesn't leave me any more confident. How could I ever doubt the hard-working team at Kurow, though? The track is in magnificent order despite the annoying rain and receives plaudits from Ian Smart, co-owner of Kurow Cup winner Meursault as the day ends without incident. Can't say I agree with the decision not to run a punters' club - better some turnover than none from general non-punters.
One to follow: Barclay Creek met Son Of Maher at Kurow and that should stack up to be tremendous form. Won't be a maiden for long.
Top tip: Complete your Facebook chats and Twitter tweets before you arrive - it's slim pickings on the internet front.
January 1
Waikouaiti RC at Waikouaiti:
Just a short hop over Mt Cargill and the Kilmog to Waikouaiti where - much like Boxing Day- the weather is playing ball. The crowd is massive, the racing is competitive and No Emotion marks a special Waikouaiti Cup win for Michael and Matthew Pitman.
One to follow: Skeen - lost race 1 on protest, but it was a top run fresh-up all the same.
Top tip: Get there early if you want a spot on the hill. Also, the food options on course are second to none. Unfortunately, I packed a lunch.
January 2
Central Otago TC at Omakau:
A blast through the Strath Taieri and across the Maniototo takes me to Omakau where a decision to wear trousers turns out to be a shocker as the weather gets steadily warmer throughout the day. An absence of wind means the pacers and trotters are flying around the 1200m circuit, setting track and New Zealand records like they're going out of fashion. A power cut later in the day doesn't stop the club turning over $300,000 on course.
One to follow: American Spirit (race 7) was very impressive winning on debut. Keep him in your black book.
Top tip: You'll probably be out of luck getting a spot under the trees, so your next best chance for shade is under the sails on the northern embankment.
January 3
Central Otago RC at Omakau:
The weather has to pack a sad at some point over summer, and unfortunately for the Central Otago thoroughbred community, it seems to cop it most years. The temperature dipped below double figures towards the end of the day - in stark contrast to the high 20s of the day before. Despite this, those on course are treated to a Samantha Wynne treble, including two smart rides in the features.
One to follow: Kruger Rand just missed out in a head bob against Robin Charles, and should clear maidens soon.
Top tip: If you feel the trots at Omakau are a bit too claustrophobic for you, the January 3 thoroughbred meeting is considerably more relaxed.
January 4
Roxburgh TC at Roxburgh:
The shorts come out for the first time this summer. The public aren't blinded by my legs, thankfully - they're too busy trying to figure out all the sponsors. The Roxburgh club's ability to attract multiple sponsors per race (plus coming up with inventive names like the Sergeant Dan Sweeper for the first bend) should be commended. Plus the feed the night before at the Calcutta is a carnivore's dream.
One to follow: Alvira Hest almost stole race 6 against some smart back-markers.
Top tip: Two words - Jimmy's Pies.
January 6
Wyndham HRC at Cromwell:
Trousers are swiftly replaced by shorts after race 1, when the Central Otago heat starts to make its mark. The dry weather has taken its toll on the outside of the track and many back-markers use that to their advantage, making winning runs.
One to follow: Tehoro Ruby found her mojo again in race 3. Stick with her over the next month or two.
Top tip: Hold on to your best dress or suit - Fashion On The Fields numbers are a bit lighter here, so maybe target this for your best chance of grabbing a prize.
January 7
Oamaru HRC at Oamaru:
The drive from Cromwell to Oamaru via the Lindis Pass goes without incident - only one idiot overtaking recklessly, while truck drivers kindly pulled over where possible. This is a strange meeting - wedged between the Cromwell harness meeting the day before and Nelson the next day. It seems to be only filling the Thursday evening gap for the TAB and little else. A steady breeze makes it a rather anti-climatic end to the circuit.
One to follow: Belkmyster started off 55m and flew home for second in race 7.
Top tip: It's free entry and there is plenty of room for your car on the banks.
