Racing: NZ model face of carnival

SYDNEY - Australian racing clubs are turning to Kiwis to promote their spring carnivals.

Last year, Victorian racing bosses chose Clare Hawkes, daughter of prominent New Zealand racing identities Alan and Linda Jones, as the face of their Melbourne Cup carnival.

This week, the Sydney Turf Club (STC) appointed model Stephanie Waller as its spring ambassador.

Waller is originally from Foxton but is based in Sydney. A former Miss Horowhenua, she married former Foxton thoroughbred trainer and long-time partner Chris Waller this year.

Stephanie Waller has modelled round the world, including contracts in New York, Europe and Tokyo. She is one of Sydney's most prominent models.

She said that despite a busy career she managed to follow all the action at the track.

"I love the atmosphere of the races and particularly the social aspect of it, so this is a perfect fit for me," she said at the STC spring launch at the Canterbury races in Sydney. "I also love seeing Chris' horses win."

Her husband shifted from Foxton to Rosehill a few years ago.

- NZPA