Punters show form at Citizens Club

The crowd at the Rotorua Citizens Club watching in angst. Photo / Stephen Parker

As the Melbourne Cup was about to set off the punters club at the Rotorua Citizens Club was still busy placing bets.

Long-time member Ken Bewley was optimistic about his chances.

"I walked in and got a $6 easy bet and I think if I win I'll own this town!"

Unfortunately he did not have the best luck. Instead when outsider Prince of Penzance won, it was Harley Tomoana, 31, who turned $3 into $90.

"I'm not a big better but I thought I'd put $1 on and my mum's work was doing a sweepstake so I put $2 on the same horse there. I'm pretty stoked."

Many locals were dressed up and looking fancy, among the crowd were Judy Rewti in her red hat with matching red lips and fellow member Raewyn Ireson who was wearing a big rimmed black hat.

"I'm betting. It's our local tavern, we've come every year for about the last eight years," said Mrs Rewti.

Mrs Ireson said she was also there to bet but she was enjoying the social aspect too.

Club president Bob Thompson was happy with how the event went and said it was a great place to be for the race.

Meanwhile, Rotorua-born jockey Michael Walker had a memorable day - riding third place-getter Criterion.

Winners
* 1st Prince of Penzance
* 2nd Max Dynamite
* 3rd Criterion