Future stars step out for Spring Classics Preview Day at Flemington

With the Melbourne Cup Carnival fast approaching, Spring Classics Preview Day offers the chance for horses to gain direct entry into the Group 1 Penfolds Victoria Derby (2500m) via the Penfolds Victoria Derby Preview (1800m) and the Group 1 Kennedy Oaks (2500m) via the Kennedy Oaks Preview (1800m).  

Ambassadorial is one of the leading chances in the Penfolds Victoria Derby Preview for trainers Gai Waterhouse AM and Adrian Bott. Ambassadorial is part-owned by highly successful English trainer Jane Chapple-Hyam and is a son of Gai’s 2013 Melbourne Cup winner Fiorente.  

In the Kennedy Oaks Preview, some well-bred fillies will line up including Danny O’Brien’s Served Cold, a sister to Australian Oaks winner El Patroness.  

Prior to the race day, the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and Flemington trainers will host the first Stables Tour with Victoria’s leading trainers set to open their doors to the public. The open morning has been extremely popular, and bookings have now closed for the event that will give attendees a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into training and caring for elite equine athletes.    

VRC Chief Executive Offer Steve Rosich said the club was looking forward to hosting a great day of Sunday activities at Headquarters.  

“Spring Classics Preview Day is a stage-setter for bigger races during Cup Week such as the Penfolds Victoria Derby and Kennedy Oaks,” Mr Rosich said. 

“With tickets at just $20 for adults and free entry for kids under 12, Spring Classics Preview Day is a great way to spend a Sunday with the family.” 

“We start the day with our first pre-booked Stables Tour, allowing the public an inside look at the impressive training facilities and a meet and greet with some of the trainers and horses that call Flemington Racecourse home.” 

For VRC Members, The Roof Garden will be the ideal location to soak up the sunshine, with refreshing cocktails and the tunes and live entertainment will be going from mid-afternoon until after the last.    

The Members Family Lawn offers seating and activities that are perfect for a family day out at the races.   

For general admission racegoers, the Saintly Place Sports Bar will be open for everyone to enjoy the pub-like atmosphere and join the fun of the Punters Club.  

Gates open at 12:30pm ahead of race 1 at 1:30pm. General Admission tickets are $20 per person with children under 12 admitted free to Flemington. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vrc.com.au.

The next race day at Flemington will be TAB Turnbull Stakes Day on Saturday 7 October. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vrc.com.au.