HORSE RACING: Spring racing is over for another year, so what better time to recognise the good and not so good efforts over the period.

CHAMPION PERFORMER: Winx. How can you go past the mighty mare, who landed her third consecutive Cox Plate in race record time. Superstar.

The magician: Lloyd Williams. No man puts more effort into trying to win Australia's signature race than Mr Williams, who collected his sixth Cup with Rekindling.

Close but no cigar: Tom Melbourne. You have to feel sorry for poor Tom, who keeps finding one better than him on race day.

HARD LUCK: Punters on Tamasa on Stakes Day. If you were on the Darren Weir-trained galloper in the last race of the Flemington carnival, you're entitled to still be dirty, as it has been confirmed the horse is still not into the open.

INNOVATION: The Everest.

I don't like announcing prizemoney increases on Cup day, but the race was a star of the spring, and a roaring success.

CHARITY BET OF THE WEEK

Almandin - Sandown Race 7 No 1 - $50 win at $2.60

The Lloyd Williams trained galloper is the class runner of the race, and although Big Duke is a huge danger, the WFA conditions certainly favours the 2016 Melbourne Cup winner. Damien Oliver on board is a plus, and the inside gate won't be an issue.