George Simon: Nothing compares to the West Coast
George Simon • January 13th, 2025 4:16 PM
I reckon I deserve one of those "I Survived" tee shirts you see in souvenir memento shops.
The ones that usually say you've ticked off a bucket list wish.
Mine would read "I Survived the West Coast Circuit".
Only just though, to be fair.
For the second year in a row, I had the pleasure of calling the iconic West Coast circuit of Greymouth, Reefton and Kumara.
And once again I saw why this unique annual event is on so many racing enthusiasts bucket list.
I've been very fortunate to have travelled to see some of the world's best races at some of the most famous racecourses in the world.
At the risk of sounding like a plonker, I've seen racing in Europe, Japan, USA, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia and throughout Australasia.
I wanted to mention those places to give some context.
There is nothing in the Racing World that can compete with the sheer uniqueness of the West Coast Circuit.
Whether it is the tradition, which goes back many generations in most cases, or the tracks, how brave are those jockeys? Or the famous West Coast hospitality - whitebait patty anyone?
There is nothing like this circuit.
Everywhere I went I bumped into locals who'd been going to these race days for years.
And it's a big day on the social calendar too.
They pitch their tents trackside generally the night before the race day.
As race day morning rolls around, everyone is soon ensconced in their spot for the day, armed with their picnic hampers and refreshments.
If you think they don't really care about the racing and it's more about the social aspect ......think again.
The Kumara Gold Nuggets Day, which was the culmination of the week, saw some extraordinary turnover figures posted.
It's not for me to say how much was bet on course by the crowd of several thousand, but I know the Kumara Racing Club were absolutely delighted.
Even the much talked about West Coast weather played its part again with a fine sunny day.
But I wish someone could bottle whatever it is that makes the West Coast circuit so much more than just another week of racing.
The facilities are more "old school" than modern, the horses won't be at Ellerslie anytime soon and I'd doubt if any of the three West Coast tracks will be the blueprint of any future racecourses.
Yet, with the true West Coaster grit and determination and their unwavering support, it works.
I might have to go back next year to see if I can find the answer.
And get another tee shirt.
Photograph at the top of the page: Mis Speaks wins the McMullan ITM (1150m) at Kumara. Credit: Race Images NZ
