Walkaway Cup socials: More than 1800 people flock to Geraldton Turf Club for final racing event of the year

Geraldton locals soaked up the sunshine and festive atmosphere as they farewelled the 2025 leg of the racing season in style at the 2025 Walkaway Cup. More than 1800 punters came through the gates at Geraldton Turf Club to watch nine blockbuster races, which captured the attention of WA’s racing enthusiasts as December 27’s standalone event. Geraldton Turf Club president Brian O’Dwyer said the crowd turnout was one of the largest the event had seen in recent years. While racing action took centre stage, there was something for everyone, with kids kept occupied by activities such as pony rides and face painting. Live performances from local musicians Geoff Udy and Shanghai headlined the off-track entertainment. On track, the day belonged to Sowar and jockey Holly Watson who claimed the Walkaway Cup. It was Sowar’s first outing since winning the York Cup in early November. Jockeys Holly Nottle and Laqdar Ramoly also had productive days, notching up two wins apiece. It was a much more pleasant day for the locals — a mild 26C — after they sweated through a scorching lead-up to Christmas, which peaked at 44C on Christmas Eve. Geraldton was named the hottest town on Earth that day.