We're Not All Fools & Horses

 

If you thought that only fools and horses work – you’d be wrong. That is, according to the outcome of Sunday’s Fools & Horses charity dinner at Sydney’s Four Seasons Hotel. 

The evening, in aid of spinal cord injury research, centred on a comedy debate arguing the topic "do only fools & horses work?"

Two teams of well-known Aussie and Kiwi debaters pitted wits against one another and provided guests with plenty of laughs. Racing personalities - the Right Honourable Henry Plumptre, James Bester and superstar Trainer Peter Moody, had the crowd in stitches arguing their respective points. While NZ beauties and respected business women, Trelise Cooper and Kylie Bax, proved they are forces to be reckoned when they step up to the lectern. The teams were rounded out by ex-Wallaby, Ben Darwin whose well thought out and sincere address reminded listeners of the real reason behind the evening.

When all was said and done, Adjudicator Antony Thompson deliberated and proclaimed the Negative team of James Bester, Ben Darwin and Kylie Bax the victors. Their argument – that we’re not all Fools & Horses - apparently too convincing.

Festivities then hit their climax when three exceptional Stallion Services went under the hammer as part of the evening’s Live Auction. After competitive bidding, the service fee to Coolmore Stud’s High Chaparral sold to Sir Patrick Hogan for $95,000.

Champion sire Stratum’s service sold to loyal Widden Stud client - Kevin O'Brien of Lauriston Thoroughbred farm. With Darley’s Exceed and Excel going to Little Avondale Stud.

Other highlights from the evening includedMC Peter FitzSimons leading the evening like a true professional with plenty of his trademark quick wit and mischief keeping guests on their toes. The sale of a luxury raffle which included a prize of return Business Class flights on-board long-time supporters Cathay Pacific, followed by the full VIP treatment at December’s Hong Kong races, and an emotional speech from CatWalk Trust Founder Catriona Williams, ending with a standing ovation from the crowd.

Many thanks must go to the generous support from guests and donators. Thanks to their contributions, close to $300,000 was raised on the night for spinal cord injury research in Australasia.

Quick Link

• Visit www.catwalk.org.nz to find out more about the great work this organisation carries out.