Jeff Hanson

2 months ago | countrypunter.com.au | Jeff Hanson

For punters astute enough to find the winner of the 2025 Tumbarumba Cup (1400m), they sang a merry song when the Andrew Dale-trained Mojo Music prevailed in a thrilling four-way finish. Taking on the $18,000 feature on the undulating Tumbarumba racecourse, there were a handful of winning chances, and bookmakers had them at $3.80 the field.

2 months ago | countrypunter.com.au | Jeff Hanson

The Lee family name is firmly established in racing, and young Ballina-based trainer Jordan Lee wants to continue that tradition. The 24-year-old is the son of champion country trainer Stephen Lee, who’s prepared 800-plus winners during a storied career. Stephen learned from his late father, Bruce Lee, at Quirindi before launching a training operation at Coffs Harbour.

2 months ago | countrypunter.com.au | Jeff Hanson

Tough as guts Kembla Grange galloper Direct Fire showcased his determination when holding on for memorable victory in Sunday’s $80,000 Bega Cup. Ridden by Amy McLucas for trainer Theresa Bateup, the four-year-old worked hard for the lead in the 1600m Sapphire Coast Turf Club feature race, and turning for home, there was a wall of horses breathing down the leader’s neck.

2 months ago | countrypunter.com.au | Jeff Hanson

Matthew Kelley will be targeting a Country Cup with Stupendo on Saturday, but there are options on the table for connections. With Braidwood and Tumut racing on the same day, Kelley and the Supido gelding’s ownership group have a decision to make. The non-TAB $22,000 Braidwood Cup carries a richer prize purse, and the five-year-old gets in nicely with 59kg, draws well with gate three, and has attracted the services of recent Tumbarumba Cup winning jockey Billy Owen.

2 months ago | countrypunter.com.au | Jeff Hanson

Adding further interest to two popular Southern Districts Racing Association (SDRA) non-TAB meetings, there is now a $4000 incentive to win the 2025 Tumbarumba and Holbrook Cups. With plenty of racing in the Southern District in February, Tumbarumba Turf Club and Holbrook & District Race Club have teamed up to attract more horses to their meetings, held on February 1 and 15, respectively.