Oxford Meet Up: Brilliant day, with brilliant people

Saturday’s members meet-up was a great success at Oxford, and a huge thank you goes out to all who made the journey for the Pal Mal Final.

We started the day around 1 pm at the Prince of Wales Cowley, where we watched ITV Racing. Nervous but excited, my wife and I headed in to be greeted by Carl and then Mark at the bar. We took our seats at the back of the pub under the big screen TV, ready to watch our first selection, Flowerhead.

Shortly after learning our fate with the bet out of the frame, we were joined by Andy, Dave B, Billy and his partner.

We had some good laughs throughout the afternoon, despite the tips not going as I would like. Mark ensured a laugh-out-loud moment with his comment of “I don’t bet a lot of money, so I am ok”, which quickly lifted the table as we all curled up laughing, before a group reply of “Oh, Piss off, Mark” followed.

Beers were flowing, and thankfully, Calandagan clawed back some of our outlay before the wife organised the taxis to the racetrack.

On arrival, we were escorted to our box, which Billy Brennan had kindly selected, and it was not to disappoint. A large room with a bar, ideally situated on the course, with a full-length window viewing from top to bottom.

After opening a bar tab to ensure that members would only spend the bare minimum of their own cash, it was time for mixing – brilliant to see so many people chatting away and having a laugh.

Dave Young and Billy did an excellent pre-race talk and provided everyone with plenty of winners throughout the night.

The huge buffet, which even included a full chocolate cake, was delicious and top-class, enjoyed by everyone and lasting all evening.

The track was buzzing, and the crowd was excellent.

Back in the Box meeting members and hearing their stories was the highlight of my night. So many people from so many differing backgrounds, all very pleasant, made it a night not to forget.

Four races were named – again, thanks to Billy – as follows.

Uk No.1 Horse Tipster Daryl Carter is now on Patreon

Daryl Carter Racing : If you can’t be good Be Lucky

Daryl Carter Racing I can’t believe it’s only £26 per month

Join Daryl Carter Racing www.patreon.com/darylcarterracing

To hear these read out was a real buzz!

Heading back into the box to take care of the tab, and Dave B very kindly told me he was paying half! Following his brilliant 10/1 winner at the track – what a nice guy! Before that, he had lost a few races, and said jokingly to the barstaff, “If this dog doesn’t win, I am drinking this bar dry”, before my wife shouted, “Not when I am paying for it, you ain’t”. This brought a big laugh from the room.

All in all, this was a special experience, and I thank everyone for coming along. Here’s to the next one!