April 10, 2019
The Australian Turf Club was excited to have international chef Clodagh McKenna at Royal Randwick at The Championships Day 1, with the renowned cookbook author and TV presenter designing a Winx-inspired dessert for the great mare’s final race day.
A special Winx Pavlova will be served in selected hospitality venues at The Championships Day 2 – Longines Queen Elizabeth Stakes Day – one of many tributes to the world’s best horse, who is set to be retired from racing after a record-breaking career.
Ms McKenna is in Sydney with her partner Harry Herbert, Chairman and Managing Director of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing.
“I’m very excited to be creating the dessert for Winx’s last race,” Ms McKenna told ATC TV.
“How amazing is that?
“I have done a pavlova that has whispers of rose water and loads of beautiful Australian blueberries on top. It’ll be very exciting and such an honour.”
Hailing from Cork in Ireland, Ms McKenna is on her first trip to Australia and is loving the outdoors – especially trips to Coogee beach. But being a chef, she is keeping a close eye on the local cuisine and fresh produce.
“I was excited about coming to Australia, obviously for the racing, but also because of the food,” Ms McKenna said.
“Last week we were here for The Championships Day 1, and the food at the Australian Turf Club was just out of this world.
“What I love about here in Australia is that you cook in season. Like now you’re coming into the autumn and all the beautiful pumpkin and squashes and heirloom tomatoes are fantastic and so delicious.”
Ms McKenna has recently released her sixth book, Clodagh’s Suppers, which has recipes to create the perfect dinner party at home.
“There are actually lots of recipes that people are just cooking for their families, like my fish pie with a crispy potato rosti topping with cheddar,” Ms McKenna said.
“Or even coming into the winter my wild mushroom risotto that goes along with the tarragon roast chicken.
“There’s lots of variation but everything is very, very simple.”
Ms McKenna and Mr Herbert will be in attendance at Royal Randwick for The Championships Day 2 as Winx runs in her final race, the Group 1 Longines Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
“It’s so great coming here with Harry. He’s so passionate about horse racing. It’s in his blood.”
Racegoers on Saturday will be part of Australian sporting history, and those lucky enough will get their just desserts to go along with Winx’s celebrations.