The rain did not dampen the positivity or numbers at Omakau Trots annual event ( January 2) looking to break all previous records dating back to 1965.

Gate-takings suggest there was a big crowd enjoying great racing and entertainment. 

Central Otago Trotting Club president Graham Sinnamon said he was grateful the crowd chose to spend the second day of 2026 at the races, and praised the community effort that made the day possible.

John Dunn after his 1500 race win with Henry Hubert

“There were 19 community groups running the show today,” he said.

“Even though we are the trotting club, there's 19 other clubs that make it happen. It’s just like a big jigsaw. We are a piece, and so is everybody else. By the time you put all the pieces together, you've got the day, and I think that it's a community thing.

“Today was a culmination of a lot of work and things going right on the day like the weather was fantastic. The crowd were fantastic. It's just what you hope for.”

Family fun at the Omakau races

“I was talking to people in the car park… [who] hadn't seen a race, but they are having a fantastic time. It's not for us to tell you how to enjoy your day. We provide what we think is a wide-ranging package, and there's something for everybody,” Graham said.

For more of the big day at the Omakau Races, click on the video link below.