MUSWELLBROOK Race Club's meeting on Friday saw crowds return to Skellatar Park for the first time since February with locals having plenty to cheer about.
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In what was an exciting return to the track, Muswellbrook trainers Stephen Gleeson and Jan Bowen both posted a win on the eight-race card.
Cosmic Reign captured the third, the TAB - Long May We Play Benchmark 66 Handicap over 1280m, for Gleeson.
The gelding took up the lead early and was able to post easy sectionals before quickly dashing away in the straight to post an impressive all the way victory by one and three-quarter lengths.
This was the gelding's seventh career triumph and fourth at Skellatar Park.
The Cody Morgan-trained Blazing Tycoon filled second spot while new Muswellbrook trainer Sam Kavanagh recorded his first placing since returning to the training ranks with Jirnass battling away for third.
The Bowen-mentored Slickster brought up the second local win for the day, with an impressive performance in the Godolphin Benchmark 58 Handicap over 1000m.
Stalking the early leader, the Pat Farrell-trained Bengalla Bay into the straight, Slickster let down brilliantly to post a half-length victory.
This was the gelding's fourth career win and the first on his home track after two previous placings.
With coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions starting to ease, it is hoped that the Bengalla Cup meeting on Sunday, August 2, will be able to accommodate more people including sponsors in hospitality areas.