"You'll never make anything of yourself unless you study,'' I was told countless times by numerous teachers as I laboured through the Catholic education system of the 1960s and 70s.
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Actually, that was about the nicest things they said to me, but there's a topic for another occasion.
And to be fair, they were right.
However, those teachers, the majority now long departed, can take solace in the fact that for last couple of days at least I have been studying. For Sunday is a big day - the first Taree Cup run in November and I'm determined to be on the winner. So I've been immersed in poring over the form for the 2000 metre, $100,000 event.
The Stacks Law Firm Taree Cup hasn't been a particularly lucrative race for this admittedly part-time punter. Meeting, owned by Ivan 'Ike' Livermore, literally and figuratively a towering figure on the local racing scene, was the last winner I had some of my hard earned on. That was back in 1985.
However, as those who loiter around racetracks without intent will say, anyone can have an unlucky three and a half decades.
So come 5.14pm on Sunday when the 2000 metres, $100,000 Taree Cup is due to start at the Bushland Drive Racetrack, I'll have completed an in-depth look at the form guide, listened to those who know, or think they know what they're talking about, before taking the plunge. Hopefully the result will be favourable and I'll be adding to my retirement fund.
There'll be eight races up for decision on Sunday, starting at 1.30pm.
Manning Valley Race Club successfully lobbied Racing NSW to move the cup from the chilly August to a more balmy November and it's to be hoped the community responds by turning out in force.
Don't forget to gamble responsibly though. And good luck in the cup.
Mick McDonald
Acting editor
