Giving Back Through Horses: Keyara Guthrie named Volunteer of the Year at Pinjarra Paceway

For Keyara Guthrie, there’s nothing more rewarding than combing her love for horses with her passion of giving back to the community.

The selfless volunteer was bestowed the Pinjarra Harness Racing Club’s inaugural Volunteer of the Year honours last week for her ongoing commitment to harness racing.

Keyara, one of the more than 4,000 volunteers who provide their time at racing clubs across the State, was recognised for being an important part of the Pinjarra Paceway in her role microchip scanning horses running at trials.

“It was a surprise to be recognised, I wasn’t really expecting it – I just love doing my job for the horses,” Keyara told Racing WA.

“I’ve enjoyed being involved, and I’ve met a lot of people, it’s great volunteering and being around the horses.”

Keyara has always had an affinity with standardbreds, which includes helping her uncle, well-known horseman Merv Cox, educate juveniles. Keyara said Merv was a terrific mentor and the experienced gained at his stable had provided her with the willingness to lend a helping hand at the Pinjarra Paceway.

“I hope I can keep volunteering for a while and I look forward to any opportunities that come my way,” she said.

“I would encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to get involved with volunteering at a race club, it’s a great way to get your foot in the door and is really rewarding.”

Pinjarra Harness Racing Club General Manager Dale Putland commended Keyara’s dedication and said she was a worthy recipient of the inaugural award.

“With a proud history of many volunteers supporting the Pinjarra Harness Racing Club with various tasks, the club recently introduced an award to recognise their contribution,” he said.

“Keyara’s dedication to checking all horses’ brands on trial days for over 12 months now has been nothing short of excellent.

“Congratulations to Keyara, thank you for all your efforts and to all of the cubs volunteers your contribution is very much appreciated.”