Before the races had begun the focus was on the Dragons’ season launch, and their charity drive for the Mates of Radar and Robbie organisation.

Then it was off to the races, with seven races and a number of Mudgee locals in starring roles.

The first of which was Cameron Crockett’s horse in Race 1 of the afternoon – he had Mar Nero race in the Benchmark 60 Handicap at 2000 metres, beating out Samikosho and Steam Machine for the top spot.

Crockett’s fiery form continued with his gelding Ori On Fire in Race 2, with Greg Ryan riding him to another first place finish ahead of Snipex Abaa and Catcha Crown.

It was the last race of the day that Gulgong’s Brett Thompson found success, with the Club Mudgee Benchmark 65 Handicap at 1100 metres.

One Last Poet, ridden by Thompson’s regular Jake Pracey-Holmes, placed first in front of Blood Red Moon and A Magic Zariz, leaving favourite Bowie’s Babe outside the photo.

Finally, it was triumphant for Mudgee’s Ganya Williams, who took out the top race – the Mudgee Mug Country Championship Preview – with Shadow Affair, pipping favourite Dreadlocks for the top spot.

Crockett had two horses in the top race, but both Iron Blue and London Lady failed to find a place.