Action packed January continues at Racing Headquarters

Lexus Melbourne Cup third place-getter Okita Soushi will make his return to Flemington in race 8 with apprentice Jett Stanley taking the ride.

Victoria’s reigning premier jockey Damian Lane will ride at Headquarters for the first time this year with a book of strong rides including Positivity for Andrew Forsman in race 1.

After their recent success at Flemington, brother and sister duo Patrick and Michelle Payne are well represented across the day including last start winner Zorro’s Flight and Tasmanian Guineas winner Wings of Song.

A host of fun family activities will be on offer to make the most of the school holiday period with the Flemington Family Lawn sure to keep the little ones entertained including face painting, water play, lawn games and a silent disco. Membership in the Phar Lap Club is free to all children under the age of 12 and provides priority access to kids’ activities and events throughout the season.

To close out the summer racing period, DJ Touch Sensitive will take to the live stage to perform and entertain racegoers following the last race. Living Legends Silent Witness and Behemoth will be trackside and will parade in the Mounting Yard after races 2 and 4 with racegoers able to visit them in the race day stalls throughout the day.

VRC Executive General Manager Racing Leigh Jordon was looking forward to the race meeting and the upcoming autumn racing period.

“It has been a great way to start the New Year at Flemington with thousands of racegoers enjoying summer racing across three meetings at Flemington,” Mr Jordon said.

“The food and beverage specials on offer make the day an enjoyable and affordable event. Some of the specials include $5 food options, $5 Furphy beers, $10 pre-mix spirits and $15 cocktails.”

“The countdown is on for the return of Group 1 racing with some of the sport's biggest stars already targeting autumn riches, starting with Black Caviar Lightning Race Day on Saturday 15 February.”

Gates open at 11:30am ahead of the ten-race program starting at 12:15pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vrc.com.au.

The VRC is preparing for a big two months of Group 1 racing throughout February and March with four feature Group 1 race days. Some of Australia’s best racehorses will converge on Flemington and will begin on Saturday 15 February for Black Caviar Lightning Day, and three March race days, Howden Australian Guineas Race Day on Saturday 1 March, Super Saturday (featuring the Group 1 All-Star Mile and Group 1 Yulong Newmarket Handicap) on Saturday 8 March and TAB Australian Cup Day on Saturday 29 March.