Mornington to Echuca is a pretty long haul at any time and the return journey is no shorter, except a bit sweeter if you’re travelling with a winner.

Matt Laurie went to Echuca yesterday with three horses and returned with a double, and a little bleary eyed as well, but that’s it’s all in the name of winning.

There was quite a bit of form about both winners, in particular Riviera Riches, he had only missed a place once in five starts, from the wide gate his win was quite impressive.

Laurie completed the double when Bet You She Rocks, a four year old mare by Fastnet Rock, was given the run of race by Chris Caserta, a likeable lad recording his second winner.

Ironically, Riviera Riches and Bet You She Rocks each had a winning margin of one and a quarter lengths.

Oakford Lass Opens Her Winning Account

Oakford Lass, a mare that has had her share of problems, rewarded trainer, Brian McKnight, for his patience when she won a 1200 metres Maiden at Echuca yesterday.

Her racing career has been limited for a five year old mare, just nine starts due to a 17months layoff through an injury.

She has returned from the paddock as sound as a bell, now with two runs under her belt this time in she is ready to take the next step.

Oakford Lass is a full sister to Le Remas, he has also been off the scene for some time due to a tendon trouble.

Oakford Thoroughbred Farm has a half sister to Oakford Lass and Le Remas by Sharkbite, to be offered for sale at VOBIS Yearling Sale on Sunday.

Naming of Races

Bendigo Jockey Club needs to be applauded with naming races of those that made such a contribution to the local race club.

Too much is taken for granted, those that served racing so well over all those years are entitled to be recognised, the men and women in many instances are a part of the heritage of the race club.

The Bonnie Bland / Man A Million Plate is named after a horse that opened his winning account in a Maiden race at Wycheproof, he graduated to a win in the Victoria Handicap and the Listed W J Healy Stakes at Eagle Farm.

George Daniel, the former school master turned trainer, prepared Sailor’s Guide, the classic winner and weight for age performer, he went on to win the Washington International in America.

Bendigo have promoted racing very well, the heritage must never he allowed to die but there are times when it is breathing a bit heavily.