The Group 1 $1.5 million Yulong Stud Newmarket Handicap (1200m) promises to capture the attention of racegoers with some of the best sprinters in the country set to compete in the 150th running of the race.
Defending champion Roch ‘N’ Horse will hope to join the honour roll and become just the sixth horse in the race’s history to win the feature in consecutive years. Previous winners that have won back-to-back include Redkirk Warrior (2017 & 2018), Razor Sharp (1982 & 1983), Correct (1960 & 1961), Gothic (1927 & 1928) and Aspen (1880 & 1881).
The reigning champion will face fierce competition in the form of Peter Moody trained I Wish I Win and Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes winner In Secret, who returns to Flemington with leading jockey Jamie Kah booked to ride.
Other highlights on the racing card include the $300,000 Group 2 TAB Kewney Stakes (1600m) for three-year-old fillies and the $300,000 Group 2 MSS Security Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) for two-year-olds.
The race day will also see the debut of the $200,000 TAB Australian Cup Prelude (2000m) which will be a strong preview for the Group 1 TAB Australian Cup on Saturday 25 March.