Here is the story behind the 1967 Melbourne Cup won by Swan Opal. Trained by leading NSW mentor the late Neville Ballinger he quinellaed the race with Dollar Hunter. The race was not without controversy when Bold Charmer was withdrawn from the star-studded line up declared unfit to run, leaving only seven starters. I spoke with Neville’s daughter Lauris Kentwell.
Jeff Holland – Lauris, had an incredible knowledge of the sport, trained my first really good bitch Make Me Fly.
Howard Gray – Jeff Holland Charlie Kentwell trainer of top sprinting bitch Amethyst Queen’s wife?
Jeff Holland– Howard Gray yes, great couple, the only people I ever knew who planned a life after dogs.
Jeff Collerson – Jeff Holland She was also a top class hockey player while her husband Charlie played first grade rugby league on the wing and represented country firsts against City
Jeff Holland – Jeff Collerson Lauris still does well at seniors golf. I never saw him play, but dad always said that Charlie was near impossible to lay a hand on, he could really move on a field. His good mate Bobby Bennet who was Captain NSW Country bred and sold me… See more
Jeff Holland – Lauris and Charlie also had Vienna Parade the brother to arguably the best bitch of her generation Promises Free. He was a top class stayer at Harold Pk, but I’m not sure if he ever won a major race.
Majella Ferguson – Omg Lauris a great lady and family friend please say hi