The Narromine Turf Club has done its part in raising mental health awareness following the running of its Racing Mates R U OK Race Day meeting on September 15th.
Despite the township of Narromine being washed out by wet weather, the Club pursued with the race meeting with the transfer to Dubbo where the Racing Mates BBQ was held for participants and members of the racing community.
Racing Mates ambassador Pat Webster was special guest and the event was hailed as a success, despite the abandonment of half of the race meeting following further heavy rainfall.
“We may have been spoiled by wet weather, but certainly not the spirit of the Narromine racing community in raising awareness for mental health,” said Narromine Turf Club’s treasurer, Tristan Penson.
Penson praised the Dubbo Turf Club for coming to their aid and also supporting the Racing Mates R U Ok Day concept.
“The Narromine Club ran a R U OK Day previously a few years ago and it was a great turnout,” Penson said.
“We are grateful to have the support of Racing Mates and Pat Webster and we are also thankful to members of the Narromine racing community who came together to support the initiative.
“Our local trainers Kylie Kennedy and Wayne Collison sponsored the BBQ and drinks which was appreciated by all.
“Sam Fitzgerald from Dubbo Turf Club also supported the event and provided extra goods which we are grateful for.”
Racing participants hailed the BBQ get-together a success with many coming together for a chat with Pat Webster, and, each other.
“It’s important for participants and the racing community to come together and talk to each other,” Penson said.
“Pat (Webster) was awesome chatting to all the strappers, trainers and barrier attendants and was handing out sausage sandwiches which all enjoyed.”
Research has found that effective support offered from peers and colleagues can aid significantly in coping with stress and difficult situations.
Webster has said the Racing Mates BBQ get-togethers are working well with engaging country racing communities. 
“Our most recent Racing Mates gatherings including the last event at Inverell (May 20th)  have been marvelous,” Webster said.
“So far Narromine (at Dubbo) and Inverell are on equal points as the best run so far.
“For a cold and rainy day, it was great to see the racing community stop and come together over a BBQ.
“I’m also grateful to young local rider Sebastian Galea who helped me deliver the sandwiches around the race day stall area.”
Further information on Racing Mates and its ambassadors can be found online at www.racingmates.com.au