A highlight on the race day, the Group 3 Standish Handicap (1200m) will feature a quality group of off-season sprinters who are set to light up the Flemington straight. The winner of the race gains an automatic start in the Group 1 Yulong Stud Newmarket Handicap (1200m) on Super Saturday at Flemington on Saturday 9 March. International globetrotter The Astrologist headlines the race and returns to Flemington for the first time since his last preparation which included starts in Dubai and at Royal Ascot. Victoria’s leading metropolitan rider Damian Lane will partner The Astrologist with eight other rides across the day. Last year’s winner Snapper will also line up in the race for Flemington trainer Mike Moroney.
In collaboration with the Victorian Jockeys’ Association (VJA), the race day will be dedicated to honouring our jockeys. The VJA, representing registered jockeys and former jockeys in Victoria, works towards ensuring optimal industry conditions and support for jockeys to sustain safe, productive and enduring careers in the racing industry. Race names across the program carry tributes to VJA initiatives and a blessing of the track ceremony will occur after race 7 at 3:55pm to acknowledge the contributions of both former and current jockeys. Racegoers will also be encouraged to support jockeys in need by donating to the National Jockeys Trust on the day via QR codes across the course and in the race book.
VRC Chief Executive Officer Steve Rosich said the club was looking forward to the race day.
“It was fantastic to see so many people trackside at Flemington to kick off the New Year and we are looking forward to welcoming people back to Headquarters this weekend for a pleasant summer day,” Mr Rosich said.
“We will be honouring our jockeys throughout the day with the blessing of the track and race names. I encourage racegoers to help support the cause and donate to the National Jockeys Trust.
“And the Standish Handicap looks to be a thrilling contest with connections trying to secure their golden ticket into one of the country’s most prestigious Group 1 sprints, the Yulong Stud Newmarket Handicap.”
The Flemington Family Lawn in The Elms will be the perfect spot for families to enjoy various games, crafts and activities. The Front Lawn will also be abuzz with lots of seating options, food trucks and bars on offer. Nearby in the Saintly Place Sports Bar, the VRC Punters Club will be open for all to enter for just $10 per ticket.
Victoria Derby and Melbourne Cup winner Efficient will be trackside alongside fellow Living Legend, two-time Hong Kong Cup winner California Memory. The legends 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.
Gates open at 11:30am ahead of the ten-race program starting at 12:13pm. General Admission tickets are $20 per person with children under 12 admitted free to Flemington. Discover more here.
