I know of nobody more passionate about harness racing than Club Menangle historian and archivist Peter Collier. His passion is exceeded only by his attention to detail and an unfailing sense of history. Peter is resident caretaker of an amazing 24,600 photographs currently in the Club’s archives. The negatives were purchased many years ago from ace photographer the late Gene Lett whose son Chips continues to photograph magic moments from Menangle. Sadly not all of those negatives were in good enough condition to be digitalised. Those that were, are now safely in the archives with thousands more awaiting attention.
Peter Collier - harness racing devotee, historian and archivist.
Peter Collier has painstakingly selected from his database a collection of images marking 75 years of trotting or harness racing in Sydney - from the exciting introduction of night trotting at Harold Park in 1949 to 2020 and beyond. Talented Club Menangle staff members Kate Butt and Jessica Watkins have played a hand in the digitalisation process.
With the unfailing support of Chairman Robert Marshall, Club Directors and CEO Bruce Christison, Peter Collier has created a good looking and very high quality book called “Retro Trots” which will take lovers of the sport on a sentimental journey. Peter Collier this will serve as your “magnum opus”.
For those who’d like to access a copy of the book before Xmas, the procedure is simple. Copies will be available at the information booth in the grandstand foyer on Saturday nights, or to enquire about pick-up or postage you can ring 02 4645 2200 Monday to Friday. Cost is $49.95 plus $16.00 for trackable satchel postage. Below is a sample of the wonders of photographic digitalisation. This race was run more than 70 years ago.
Dave Wilson glances at runner up Recovered as Avian Derby coasts home in the 1952 Inter Dominion Grand Final.