Mel Ozoux
Clerk Of The Course For 20 Years
We asked Mel Ozoux what makes country racing better than the city… and her answer says it all.
“The crowd, catching up with friends, and the hype — it’s the one day of the year that brings the whole region together.”
It’s more than just racing — it’s a reunion, a celebration, and a day everyone looks forward to.
READ MORE BELOW…
Why are the Walgett Races the best day out west?
Because I live next door and Tim can get himself home
How long have you been coming to the Walgett Races?
At a guess I would say since I was in nappies. There was about 4 or 5 meetings when I was a kid. The Melbourne Cup day meeting was always the best meeting of the year though.
Best horse you’ve ever seen race here?
Smoke over Tacoma aka Hooper who I clerked the course on for a for a few years. I was given him by Rodney Robb after he ran 20 lengths second last. The other great horse would have to be Wish I was Elvis aka Scooter, he ran last at Waglett races in 2019 and after a bit of discussion his owner, Robert Carey, let me have him. Scooter is now a hack and has just started barrel racing.
What’s your race day drink of choice?
Scotch and water.
Who picks the winners in your group?
Not me- note the 2 "best" horses mentioned above and where the finished.
What’s the secret to a winning bet?
I'm probably not the person to ask, I pick the pretty chunky slow horse that will make a nice saddle horse life after racing.
What makes country racing better than city racing?
The crowd, catching up with friends and the hype because it's only one day a year that brings a good mix of the region together.
Heels or boots for race day?
Boots
Champagne or beer?
Champagne
Mel riding Wish I Was Elvis
Smoke Over Tacoma