As the gates opened at 11am, the sun slowly began to peek through the clouds as colours and styles of all sorts passed through the security checks and punters placed their bets.
It’s the first time the venue has welcomed crowds since 2019 due to the Covid pandemic.
“We’re pretty pumped again,” Thompson told the NZ Herald.
“A few staff have come down from different areas, it’s their first day working with us so there’s a bit of training going on. But there’s no wind, perfect day for racing...”
Roughly 15,000 have made their way to the racecourse, the fashion show was under way from 11.30am as judges observed the most stylish of frocks and suits.
Senior Sergeant Phil Newton headed up security for the event, noting many events recently suggested spectators weren’t used to big events and alcohol.
He said the message was horses need to stay the course - and so do spectators.
“It’s a great day for it and good to see everybody else for the best day of racing, it’s just a matter of getting everybody in nice and safe.”
The newly named “Bacardi on the Green” was already packed before the first race began. ZM Village - which still had tickets available on the day - began to fill on the trackside green as Franco Josiah crossed the line in race one.
Shortly before race two, a horse escaped on to the track - it took race officials several minutes to take hold of it as it bolted out of the stables.
The Fashion Starts Here competition opened at 11am when attendees arrived. People boasting the more extravagant outfits made their way to a tent where they were judged by four acclaimed Kiwi fashion designers.
“With the absence of fashion in Christchurch in the past few years, it’s great to be back at Addington,” said judge Nicholas Henare.
“This one was extra special as it’s been so long since we could get out and have fun out there, so it’s had an extra special feel to it.”
The winners were decided shortly before 2pm. Henare said the best-dressed woman was “classically fabulous”.
“It was an easy pick, they just stood out,” Rebstock added.
Rakero Rebel’s trainer, Phil Burrows, declined to comment to the Herald.
“I have got nothing to say,” he said.
Race seven had a total stake of $140,000.
-By Nathan Morton
