Parnham powers Parker to cup win

Hec McLaren's four-year-old He’s A Parker, ridden by Chris Parnham, narrowly held off Come Play With Me in Sunday’s $100,000 Bull and Bush Tavern Cup (2219m) at the Bunbury Turf Club.

However attention from the win quickly turned to the welfare of rider Clint Johnston-Porter, who was aboard XXXX Gold Bunbury Cup winner Burger Time.

Johnston-Porter was dislodged from his saddle at the tail of the field during the final lap of the race, as runners made their way into the home straight.

On-course officials hastily made their way onto the track to examine Johnston-Porter – and it was communicated over the course PA system that he was conscious while being transported onto a waiting ambulance.

Johnston-Porter was driven to hospital for further examination, with his remaining two mounts re-allocated to Lisa Staples (He’s Packing) and Jade McNaught (No Ordinary Girl) respectively.

Spectators also paid their respects to the late David Jones with Graeme Ballantyne’s four-year-old Fa’Lion Mashine cantering to victory by 1.8 lengths in the David Jones Memorial Handicap (1208m).

The eventful day at the Bunbury Turf Club began in the morning, when club chief executive and racing manager Alex Doble was notified of minor damage to barrier gates eight, nine and 10.

Mr Doble told the South Western Times that all stakeholders – including stewards, jockeys and trainers – were immediately consulted about the situation and given an opportunity to relay any concerns.

The meeting was deemed safe and appropriate to continue after an inspection and those discussions, despite being a less than ideal situation.

Mr Doble added the minor damage would be repaired before Thursday, when the penultimatemeeting of the 2018-19 season will be held.