Ballarat Cup night celebrates International Women’s Day

BALLARAT Greyhound Racing Club has used its premier race meeting to celebrate the extraordinary contribution women make to the sport.

An all-female handlers race on Ballarat Cup night last Saturday shone a spotlight on International Women’s Day.

Marked annually on 8 March, IWD is a global day that celebrates the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women.

Handlers donned purple IWD’s polos and caps for race two on the program, fittingly won by a female trainer Ashlee Terry with Analyzation.

The win carried plenty of significance for the Lara-based trainer and winner of the prestigious Ned Bryant ‘Silver Fox’ Award in 2018 for outstanding achievement in the training, breeding or promotion of greyhound racing.

“I’m so proud to have won this race tonight,” she said.

“I’ve been fortunate to experience greyhound racing from every angle, from training to administration.

“I’m grateful to be part of a sport that allows me to be a mum of two while sharing my work and passion for greyhounds with my family.”

Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club manager Jodie Faralla was proud to see the industry championing the outstanding contributions that women make.

“Our sport is driven forward on a daily basis by so many talented women, and I’m proud that our club can celebrate them visually on our biggest night of the year,” said Faralla, who is currently Victoria’s only female greyhound racing club manager.

“Women shape greyhound racing at every level – from administration and training to our club teams on the ground.

“Behind every race are dedicated female vets, stewards, starters and kennel staff working alongside their male counterparts, ensuring everything runs smoothly.”

A successful cup night was overseen by a female steward, with a female vet and starter in operation.