Keith Dryden claims Canberra Racing Club trainer's premiership by the length of the straight

"Geez, I've never counted mate, to tell you the truth. It would probably be four or five, but I know I've been runner-up a lot more times than I've won it," Dryden laughed.

But this win is one he will never forget after an incredible 12 months marred by bushfire smoke and the coronavirus pandemic.

Dryden claimed the premiership in a canter with 23 victories, well clear of second-placed Nick Olive and third placed duo Peter and Paul Snowden.

Blaike McDougall won the jockey premiership by the length of the straight with 27 wins, while Dryden's Balonne claimed Canberra Racing Club's horse of the year.

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Balonne finished seventh in the Federal at Thoroughbred Park on Friday, with Dryden labelling it a disappointing finish but says "overall we've had a top 12 months" of results.

A small crowd was welcomed back into Thoroughbred Park for the first time since the coronavirus outbreak, with Dryden counting down the days until restrictions are lifted.

"We haven't missed any races but unfortunately with what has happened, part of the enjoyment of racing is also enjoying the owner's company and vice versa," Dryden said.

"Today they had owners and members there but everybody was segregated. The atmosphere is not quite the same but at least the industry has been able to keep going.

"The crowds will come back as soon as they are able to come back. Once it is all lifted and everybody can mingle, I think the crowds will come back pretty quick."

Dryden mightn't spend too much time celebrating another trainer's premiership, because his attention quickly turns to what comes next.

"Start all over again and try to win it again next year," Dryden said.

"The main aim in these early months is to try to get a run in The Kosciuszko with Handle The Truth. If somebody wins a ticket and wants to put him in, well that would be a great start for the year.

"I feel it'll be a good race this year as well and he will be very competitive in it, because he is now racing at a top level all the time."