Horsham trainer Paul Preusker has begun the new racing season in flying form, hitting the ground running with an excellent opening month. 
Preusker prepared seven winners from 24 August starters, striking at a remarkable 29 per cent, with another six placegetters. 
A blistering start for the McKenzie Creek operation was highlighted by a winning treble at Murtoa a fortnight ago.
Preusker’s runners have also saluted at Casterton, Warracknabeal and Warrnambool.
With the country cup season fast approaching, you could do worse than follow the Horsham camp throughout. 
Congrats to the ’Rat
Congratulations are in order to the Ararat Turf Club, crowned Country Racing Victoria’s Community Club of the Year at last week’s awards night. 
Following on from Horsham & District Racing Club’s success in this category last year, Ararat made it back-to-back titles for Wimmera Racing clubs, just reward for one of country racing’s most consistent performers. 
Along with half a dozen race meetings through the season, Ararat hosts regular trial/jumpout mornings, lauded by many as the benchmark in breakfasts across the circuit. 
The award is fitting recognition for a hard-working committee — which boasts a social-media phenomenon following Bruce McDougall’s viral “punt/drink/repeat” interview at this year’s Warrnambool carnival. 
The club can now set its sights on the Ararat Gold Cup meeting on Sunday November 8. Bravo!