It was the most stylish curtain raiser to a week of world-class racing, including a nine-race program where every race is at group level including three Group 1s.

Riff Rocket pipped Apulia at the post in the $2 million Group 1 Penfolds Victoria Derby. The $2 million Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) was taken out by Veight. The $1 million TAB Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) crowned Pride of Jenn the next queen of the turf.

While the traditional black and white theme once again took pride of place, showcasing the unstoppable elegance of Australia’s fashion capital in the Fashions on the Fields.