The exclusive discussion group at my centre of intellectual excellence (the public bar in the local pub) requires that each member possess a wide variety of interests and experiences from which fellow participants can learn and benefit.
We have, among others, tradesmen (women not excluded), accountants, teachers, publicans, motor mechanics, landscapers and racehorse owners.
Last week our horse owner shared his experience by predicting that his horse would win at the weekend at Newcastle. I should mention here that this lovely cove, Bernie, named his first horse White Devon — an adaptation of the name of Melbourne Cup winner Black Caviar.
Bernie's current horse was named in an equally creative way. When he said he was going to buy devon for lunch, his mate said, "Oh, you mean Helensburgh Ham." That became his horse's name.
And so it came to pass that we blokes gathered expectantly, with TAB tickets in hand, on Saturday at the pub, to watch Bernie's horse. It was no contest — Helensburgh Ham won race 6 at Newcastle with ease.
Thanks, Bernie. Your shout.
Paul Hunt, Engadine
