They're racing . . in the TCDC Mayoralty Stakes 2010

And they're racing in the TCDC Mayoralty Stakes. 

It's hardly started, with nominations only official at midday today, but the horses have responded to the bell and they're off with two months of promises, pledges and photo opportunities heading your way.

First out of the blocks it's current Councillor and now Mayoral candidate Dal Minogue, of that famous Hamilton Minogue family.  In the local Hauraki Herald, he's starts the bidding with a 2 year rates freeze, plus to do away with the universally hated boat ramp fee, and, if you take the time to go to his website, like this reporter did, and which may I say is nicely presented, there's a pledge to hold a referendum on 1080 - a very impressive first furlong salvo of promises.

Who's going to break next and charge to the front with their best offers?

Ex National MP (who lost his seat to the Green Queen Jeanette Fitzsimons) and current Whitianga Community Board Chairperson Murray Mclean - rumour has it there's some big spending plans coming,

The Dark Horse must be ex-councillor and real estate entrepeneur Glenn Leach.  Could he be the Obama candidate with a pledge for change? 

Perhaps current incumbent Mayor Phillipa Barriball will be next to bolt, can she win with offering more of the same? Or could her maid in waiting and current Deputy Mayor Adrian Catran - who also has a website, a very black and white website one must say, filled to the brim with promises and platitudes.  The "Community Morning Teas" or Coffee perhaps sounds interesting, hope Adrian's budget covers the sticky buns as well.

And if you're a long shot punter, look no further than convicted benefitter Graham Taylor from Whangamata. His crusade to right the wrongs of Government one council at a time starts here.  Let's not put the whole wad on this one, but he'll definitely be of interest in this field.

They're on the first straight, two laps to go . ... . . TCDC Mayoralty Race is underway . ..  the TAB is closed and all bets are off.