Man, what a day! I swear, Kawerau is wild. I woke up thinkin’ it’d be just another boring day at the track. But nah, not in this town. First off, I hit up the local café on River Rd. You know, the one with the best flat whites? Yeah, that one. I’m chugging my coffee, and boom! I spill it all over my jockey silks. Great start, right? I’m sittin’ there, lookin’ like a total mess. Then I head to the track. It’s a sunny day, but the wind’s like a freakin’ tornado. I’m tryin’ to keep my hat on, but it’s flappin’ around like a bird caught in a storm. I’m thinkin’, “C’mon, just let me ride!” So, I get on my horse, Thunderbolt. He’s a beast, but today? He’s got ants in his pants. We’re at the starting gate on Kawerau’s main track, and I can feel the energy. The crowd’s buzzin’. I’m pumped! But then, outta nowhere, this kid runs onto the track. Like, what are you doin’, mate? I’m about to race here! I’m yellin’, “Get off the track!” but he just stares at me. I’m thinkin’, “Is this kid for real?” Finally, some dude from the stands grabs him. Phew! That was close. The race starts, and I’m flyin’. Thunderbolt’s got speed, man! We’re zoomin’ down the straight on Kawerau’s main drag, and I’m feelin’ like a rockstar. But then, I see this guy on the sidelines. He’s waving a sign that says, “Thunderbolt for President!” I can’t help but laugh. Like, what’s he on about? We hit the final stretch, and I’m neck and neck with this other jockey. I’m pushin’ Thunderbolt, and he’s givin’ it all he’s got. I’m shoutin’, “C’mon, buddy! We got this!” And then, outta nowhere, I see the finish line. I’m like, “We’re gonna win!” But then, I hear this loud bang. My heart drops. I look over, and it’s a freakin’ firework show! In the middle of the race! Who does that? I’m tryin’ to focus, but the colors are poppin’ everywhere. It’s like a party in the sky. We cross the line, and I’m not sure if we won or not. I’m just buzzin’ from the ride and the fireworks. Turns out, we came in second. Ugh! So close! But hey, at least I didn’t spill my drink again. After the race, I’m walkin’ down Kawerau’s main street, and I see this food truck. It’s got the best fish and chips. I’m starvin’, so I grab a massive serving. I’m sittin’ there, munchin’ away, and I see the same kid from earlier. He’s tryin’ to sneak a chip off my plate. I’m like, “Dude, get your own!” But then, I remember bein’ a kid. So, I toss him a chip. He lights up like a Christmas tree. Kids, man. They’re wild. As the sun sets over Kawerau, I’m thinkin’ about the day. It was crazy, emotional, and full of surprises. I love this town. It’s got character, ya know? From the track to the streets, it’s all about the vibe. So, yeah, that was my day. Just another wild ride in Kawerau. Can’t wait for tomorrow!