The day started out as it was meant to go on when maiden trotter Tequila Sunrise drew first blood in the opening race. The lightly raced daughter of What The Hill justified her favouritism in what was a perfectly executed drive by David Butcher.
"She's the second horse I've had for Woodlands Stud so it was nice to get a win on the board for them," said Donnelly. "She hasn't had a great deal of luck in her races so I was hoping she'd get her turn at Palmy and she duly did."
Three races later it was the ever consistent Bad Medicine who would take out the Wairarapa Cup in the hands of stable junior Zev Meredith. In doing so, he notched up career win 300 for Arna.
"I'm sure I'll always remember this win as I was born in Wairarapa, so all in all it was a fitting result. He's had his fair share of setbacks this horse but he continues to bounce back. While he's no superstar, not many have a record of 6 wins and 23 placings. He really is the ultimate eftpos card" said an elated Donnelly.
It was the Donnelly/Butcher combo who would book end the programme when Mr President made it three wins for the day.
"He's another horse who hasn't had the rub of the green lately. On exposed form it looked his race, but it's always hard coming off a second row draw. It was a good effort sitting outside the leader for the last lap while at the same time running a very respectable last 800."
Donnelly was very humble when discussing her milestone. "I don't like to single out any win as each one is special in its own way. Whether it's a horse that's had issues, been out of form or an owner that's had a run of bad luck. It's job satisfaction when you see the joy a win can bring to many people."
"A special thanks to everyone who has given me a horse to train and all the people that have supported me over the years. As the saying goes, no one on their own can move a mountain, it takes a community. Without the help of many people this milestone wouldn't have been possible."
