Trots ready to pain the town pink in aid of breast cancer nurses

Plenty in the winners’ circle will be ‘pretty in pink’ throughout May as a terrific harness racing fundraiser again rallies for those fighting breast cancer.

May is Pacing For Pink month throughout Australia, a movement that started in Cobram in 2011, went state wide in 2021 and this year has expanded to include 218 sponsored drivers around the country.

Pacing For Pink co-ordinator and recent Pearl Kelly Award winner Marg Watson said the initiative had progressed significantly and raised vital funds and awareness.

“Last year $140,500 was raised bringing the total since we started to $320,350,” Watson said.

“We only started in a small way in Cobram but since we moved the event to Shepparton it grew quickly and going national has made a huge difference with so many drivers around the country wearing the pink pants.”

Money raised is in support of the McGrath Breast Care Nurses, who are registered nurses specially trained to manage the care of people with breast cancer throughout their treatment.

Several drivers are also receiving bonus sponsorship for each win they achieve during the month, adding to the total in the best way they know how – success on the track.

The first major fundraising event will be Sunday’s Shepparton race meeting, where the highlight will be the inaugural running of the Olive Hayes Memorial for Lady Drivers (formerly the Angelique Club Pace).

Tickets are still available for Shepparton’s Pacing For Pink Lunch in the Winning Post Dining Room at $60 per person, while mini marquees can be booked for $500 for 10 adults.

There will be great family fun, with the day featuring free face painting and a jumping castle, live music, pony trots, a raffle and silent auction.

Ararat Harness Racing Club will hold a fundraiser at its race meeting on May 20 while Geelong will stage a Dine For Pink race meeting on May 31.

In NSW, Club Menangle will host the second edition of Pacing For Pink Night Tea at its race meeting on May 30.