Race: Joey Johns just about the only no-show on Oaks day

AAP General News (Australia)
04-11-2007
Race: Joey Johns just about the only no-show on Oaks day

By Caryl Williamson

SYDNEY, April 11 AAP - Australian Jockey Club officials were smiling today after a
large crowd turned out for Oaks day at Randwick, with Andrew Johns the only notable no-show.

The league legend, who announced his retirement yesterday, backed out when he realised
how many media were waiting to greet him.

After a few false alarms and numerous reported Joey sightings, it was established he
was probably somewhere else.

But for the 12,000-plus on hand for the traditional ladies' day, there was plenty to see.

After a miserable day weather-wise for Saturday's AJC Australian Derby, followed by
a disappointing crowd for Monday's Doncaster, the sunny skies made for an exciting day.

The corporate marquees were full with the fashions returning to a classical vein as
befits ladies' day.

Fascinators were replaced by sturdier hats and stilettos gave way to the more sensible
wedge-heeled shoes and there was not a bubble skirt to be seen.

On the track it was Rena's Lady who won the AJC Australian Oaks from Perfect Drop,
upstaging race favourite Tuesday Joy who finished a distant third.

Rena's Lady is owned by a syndicate which includes her breeder Graham Smith who in
turn sold shares to a few others.

Tuesday Joy is also owned by her breeder who happens to be multi-millionaire businessman
John Singleton.

He was not his usual jovial self after the race, believing his blue blood had not been
ridden well.

But he kept his mouth shut and let the party go on around him.

The party atmosphere of Oaks day spilled over to the William Inglis complex at nearby
Newmarket where the next generation of Classic winners are on offer this week at the Australian
Easter Yearling Sale.

AAP TURF cw/gm

KEYWORD: OAKS FRONTER (PIX AVAILABLE)

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