Dunns continue to dream

Everyone involved in the ownership of a horse dares to dream: to make the track, win a race or two in the bush and, who knows, maybe even rise through the ranks to open company, the classic events, the Cups?

Barry, Yvonne and Aaron Dunn have been in the racing game for more than 40 years and have been lucky enough to experience one such ride of a lifetime with their stable star, Dee Dees Dream.

It kicked off in January 2002 when Dee Dees Dream debuted in a $1000 restricted event for 2YO pacers at Warrnambool. The youngster made short work of three rivals, leading from barrier to post to score by 13 metres in the leisurely mile rate of 2.09.3 over the sprint trip.

A moderate assignment by any measure but it was the start of a racing career that spanned more than six years until 'Deedees' retirement in August 2008.

His record of 117 starts, 38 wins, 21 minor placings and stakes of $412,971 included success in a Vicbred Super Series Final (2YO colts and geldings), Victoria Sires Classic, Tasmanian Pacers Derby, 11 victories at Moonee Valley and many wins in Tasmania and South Australia.

Dee Dees Dream contested the 2005 and 2008 editions of the Horsham Pacing Cup but finished out of the money on both occasions. "It's hard to win a race anytime anywhere," said Barry. "But even more so with the country cups in Victoria."

More than consolation for finishing close in feature events at Hamilton, Nyah, Maryborough, Bendigo and Globe Derby are Dee Dees Dream's trio of City Of Launceston Pacing Cups, earned after starting from the extreme outside of the second row on each occasion.

So the Dunn family continue to live the dream and every year bring a number of new youngsters into the stable.

"We'll enter Shady Azz and Sporty Azz in the 2YO race here on Sunday," said Barry. "They probably won't be good enough to beat the better bred ones going around but they need the experience and it will stand them in good stead for when we find something more suitable."

So, like the Dunns, the Horsham club encourages family and friends to pack the picnic rug, hamper and Esky and enjoy a great community event on the spacious lawns of the Horsham Racing Centre.

"For the first time on Cup Day the gates will be open with free entry and you'll be greeted by tin rattlers for the Naked Farmer's nominated charity, Royal Flying Doctor Service Mental Health Unit," club president Justin Lane said.

"Apart from all the action out on the track you'll enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with live music, sweeps, giveaways and prizes, including a chance to win $4000 in the Dunn Ezy Seed Cleaning Owner-For-A-Day competition.

"There's plenty of free activities to keep the kids entertained. The jumping castle, gladiator ring, giant slide and basketball throw cater for all ages and one lucky youngster will win an iPad mini."

So getyabackside trackside and seeya Sunday!

Tony Logan