As anticipation builds for this year's event, we're taking a stylish stroll down memory lane to the spectacular Gong race day held on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The Illawarra Turf Club at Kembla Grange was the place to be, offering a perfect Spring day that set the stage for an unforgettable occasion.
A Record-Breaking Day for the Illawarra Turf Club
Officials from Racing NSW confirmed it was their biggest day ever at the iconic Kembla Grange track. The glorious weather played a starring role, drawing huge crowds who arrived dressed in their absolute finest, ready for a day of high-stakes racing and even higher fashion.
Fashions on the Field Steals the Show
The Fashions on the Field competition was a central highlight of the day, with more than twenty female competitors vying for the top honour with their stunning millenary.
The coveted title of best-dressed female was awarded to Kerrie Flentjar from Nowra. She captivated the judges with a classic black and white ensemble that had a brilliant sustainable backstory. Kerrie revealed she had upcycled the outfit from a previous Melbourne Cup event, adding her own homemade flourishes to create a winning look.
Sustainability was a major theme on the catwalk, with many finalists highlighting that they or their talented mothers had spent time carefully crafting and customising their outfits.
The best-dressed male prize was claimed by Daniel Crouch, who impressed with his effortlessly cool style, featuring a sharp burgundy suit and a classic pair of sunglasses.
Gringotts Gallops to Victory in The Gong
On the track, all eyes were on the feature race, the Illawarra Mercury The Gong. The victory went to Gringotts, a horse that had been tipped for success earlier in the week by Kembla trainer Luke Price. The win sent a wave of excitement through the crowd, capping off a perfect day of racing.
The 2024 Gong race day at Kembla Grange was a brilliant combination of sporting excellence, community spirit, and stunning style, setting a high bar for this year's event.
