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Jonny Depp to compete at Karekare Beach Races

Immediate release

February 25, 2014

Jonny Depp to compete at Karekare Beach Races

News that Jonny Depp has entered Karekare’s famous black-sand beach race has locals in a tizz, ready to put out the red carpet and keep paparazzi at bay. The famously handsome star remained tight-lipped about his training regimen, but his agent confirmed it is simple, and concentrates on avoiding too many oats just before the event…

Yes, Jonny Depp is a horse, and owner and rider Mels Barton says, “There’s nothing like the feeling of galloping flat out on the black sand, it’s so exhilarating, and of course Johnny is a superstar and absolutely loves all the attention.”

Mels has raced at the event before, “It’s the ultimate community carnival event, the west at its most colourful best, and it’s our big outing of the year, so we both look forward to it tremendously.

Mels and Jonny, a spirited grey, are among 23 horses currently confirmed for the day, with late enquiries still coming in, says horse wrangler Caroline Grove.

The racing takes place alongside a beach carnival – with flags, raffles, kids games and plenty of home baking as well as drinks and the surf club’s famous sand burgers.

Funds go to help the local Surf Club keep swimmers safe on the beach and towards a new roof for the community school, “So bring plenty of change,” Caroline says, “As there’s no Eftpos on the beach, and don’t forget footwear, as the black sand does get very hot in the sun.”

The event will open with a hat contest at 10.30, and the car park is expected to fill up fast. “There’s a $2 shuttle from the Piha Domain if you don’t want to worry about parking,” Caroline says, and anyone worried about the weather should look for an update on our facebook page – if it’s raining in town, it’s often still fine out here!”

Jonny Depp won’t be worried about small change, he’s hoping to win some of the prize purse on offer, though he might have to be content with meeting a few more fans. “I’m amazed how many people remember him from year to year,” Mels says, “especially as we never win!”


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