Fasttrack
CEO Welcome
Welcome to Fasttrack Magazine, your guide to the upcoming Ascot Racing Carnival.
Welcome to the 2025/26 edition of Fasttrack Magazine. As we finally start to emerge from the wettest and coldest Perth winter in 30 years, it’s perhaps natural that there’s an even greater sense of anticipation about the return to Ascot and spring racing than usual.
We’re proud to announce that, following on from the opening of Ollie’s Bar last year, and the renaming of the grandstand in honour of Damien Oliver, we have continued our commitment to investing in infrastructure at Ascot. In partnership with Racing WA, we have extended and completely redesigned the female jockeys’ changing rooms – ensuring we now have facilities that better reflect not only the status of our leading metropolitan facility, but also the growing number of our elite female athletes.
We are also embarking on a project to refurbish part of the Tote Hall to breathe life back into one of our Heritage buildings to create a new hospitality venue, which we aim to have ready by the 2026 Perth Cup.
Alongside the extensive refurbishments at Belmont Park, this represents an almost $10m commitment to improving infrastructure across Perth Racing’s venues.
We are excited to once again partner with Racing WA to try and entice the very best horses, jockeys and trainers in Australia across the Nullarbor to challenge for our feature races across The Pinnacles and through to the Perth Cup – and we hope to welcome back names like Bjorn Baker, Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald, Ciaron Maher, Chris Waller, Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott, Jamie Kah, James McDonald, Craig Williams, Blake Shinn – and many more.
With 17 black type races, including three Group 1s, and over $10.5m in prize money across our carnival, we remain an enticing option for the elite participants of Australian thoroughbred racing to consider.
The eastern state raiders completed a clean sweep of our Group 1 contests last year thanks to the exploits of PORT LOCKROY (Rob & Annabel Neasham), who provided local hoop Clint Johnston-Porter with his maiden Group 1 victory in the Swan Draught-Railway Stakes; OVERPASS (Bjorn Baker), who continued his love affair with Ascot Racecourse in taking out the MCA Polytrack Winterbottom Stakes, and LIGHT INFANTRY MAN (Ciaron Maher), who stormed home to take the G1 TABtouch Northerly Stakes.
Champion trainers Grant & Alana Williams ensured the last of the feature races, the $1.5m Gold Rush, stayed in the west thanks to the outstanding performance of stable favourite WESTERN EMPIRE.
The interstate challengers may not find they have things their own way again this year though, thanks to the emergence of a new WA thoroughbred superstar in the shape of $5m Kia Quokka winner, JOKERS GRIN. The apple of Bernie Miller’s eye, JOKERS GRIN looks set to target the Winterbottom Stakes and then The Gold Rush, and he’s sure to have an army of loyal fans ready to cheer him home.
The TABtouch Perth Cup is once again set to offer a $1m purse and is likely to attract not only the local staying stars but interstate challengers as well.
Outside of The Pinnacles series we can expect some outstanding supporting racedays – Unite Resourcing Opening Day, Liquor Barons Sporting Legends Day, Irish Day, Melbourne Cup Day at Ascot, Family Christmas Day – all look set to attract quality horses, big crowds and a carnival atmosphere.
All of us at Perth Racing look forward to welcoming you back to Ascot and thank you for your continuing support of the Club.
James Oldring Perth Racing
CEO
ASCOT R ACECOURS
ASCOT RACECOURSE
6 horses to watch
JULIO SANTARELLI RACING WA
1
JOKERS GRIN
Jokers Grin heads into The Pinnacles after a campaign that lit up WA racing. Trained by Bernie Miller, the gelding began with a dazzling Rock Magic Stakes (1000m) win, then dead-heated in the Roma Cup before being relegated to second on protest. He bounced back with a career-defining triumph in The Quokka (1200m), confirming his place among WA’s elite sprinters. With $2.2 million in earnings already, there’s every chance that’s just the beginning. The stable has mapped out a bold Pinnacles campaign with three major targets: the Colonel Reeves Stakes (1100m), Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) and Gold Rush (1400m).
MACHINE GUN GRACIE
Machine Gun Gracie has her eyes on the Group 1 Northerly Stakes (1800m) as she returns for her four-year-old season. Trained by Justine Erkelens, she enjoyed a dominant three-year-old campaign, winning the Natasha Stakes (2200m), WA Oaks (2400m) and WA Derby (2400m). Those staying performances stamped her as one of WA’s most exciting fillies of recent years. Now more mature, she takes on open weight-for-age company where the Northerly could be her crowning moment. Connections also have the Perth Cup (2400m) on the radar, meaning Gracie could play a major role across both middle-distance and staying features this summer.
TALKANCO
Talkanco burst onto the scene as a two-yearold and quickly became one of WA’s brightest talents. The I’m All The Talk filly, trained by Dan and Ben Pearce, won three of her five juvenile starts, including the prestigious Karrakatta Plate (1200m) and WA Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m), amassing over $500,000 in prizemoney. She resumes in the Belgravia Stakes (1200m) and could either follow the Placid Ark Stakes (1200m) path or stretch to the WA Guineas (1600m). While some doubt her ability over a mile, her race sense and toughness suggest she may adapt. With speed and pedigree, she looms as a carnival star.
OPPORTUNISTIC
Unbeaten in three starts, Opportunistic has emerged as a major new force in WA racing. The Michael Grantham-trained gelding, racing in Bob Peters’ famous cerise and white, announced himself with Listed wins in the Raconteur Stakes (1400m) and Belmont Guineas (1600m). By champion sire So You Think, he impressed with a barnstorming finish in the Raconteur and proved his staying promise in the Guineas. His style and pedigree suggest he’ll only improve as distances increase. With Peters’ backing and a stable in form, Opportunistic has both the profile and talent to step up into feature races during the Ascot Pinnacles Carnival.
KING OF LIGHT
King Of Light is lightly raced but has already created plenty of buzz. The Dan Mortontrained colt by Earthlight is unbeaten in two starts, winning on debut at Pinjarra with a powerful late surge before backing it up at Belmont with a tough on-speed performance. That versatility has stamped him as a horse with enormous potential. His targets include the WA Guineas (1600m) and possibly the Group 1 Northerly Stakes (1800m), lofty ambitions but well within reach if he continues to progress. Though it’s early days, King Of Light looks to have a serious motor, and his ceiling remains untapped.
WEST STAR
Simon Miller’s Playing God gelding West Star is already a proven feature performer and one of WA’s most consistent gallopers. With five wins from nine starts, including the Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m), he has shown his quality against some of the best. His efforts in The Quokka (1200m) and Belmont Sprint (1400m) confirmed he belongs at the top level. Boasting a 56% win strike rate, placing in nearly 90% of starts, and earning more than $540,000, his record speaks volumes. Miller has even hinted at an interstate campaign, reflecting his rising profile. Whether at home or away, he’s a serious carnival contender.
Carol Adams
Perth
Racing’s
first female Chair
Q: What does it mean to you personally to be appointed as the first female Chair of Perth Racing?
If you’d asked me back in 2022, when I first joined the Board, whether I could imagine becoming Chair within two years — and the first female Chair at that — I would not have believed it. So to be here now, leading such a historic sporting club that dates back to 1855, is both humbling and exciting.
Of course, I knew stepping into the role would come with big responsibilities. Perth Racing has such a proud tradition, and there have been challenges in my first year, but I see myself as a steady pair of hands. I’ve been entrusted to do a job, and I’m fortunate to have such a professional Board and Executive team beside me — who have assisted me to guide the Club. In some ways, it is a natural progression that Perth Racing would eventually have a female Chair.
When you consider other female trailblazers: Marjorie Charleson, Paula Wagg, to the first female Board member, Joyce Stowe (1990), followed by former Vice Chair Paula Sullivan and Directors Bronwyn Barnes, Jo Davies and Derrice Dillon in more recent years, the face of racing has been slowly changing for some time — women are now owners, trainers, jockeys, Members, influencers, and administrators and much more. We have more than 500 female Members, and across Australia there are over 2,200 horses registered to all-female ownership groups. That’s a real shift. For an industry that was once very male dominated, this evolution is critical for racing’s future — it keeps the sport of racing relevant, diverse and appealing. Importantly though, Perth Racing is more than just a race club. We’re showcasing racing as a sport that combines elite athletes — both equine and human — with fashion, entertainment, and hospitality in a safe and welcoming environment. That broad appeal is where the future lies.
Q: How do you see the Club evolving over the next few years under your leadership?
Our vision is clear: we want Perth Racing to be the leading race club and the premier event host in WA. We’ve already committed to an $8 million facilities upgrade at Belmont Park, which is a big step forward. Alongside that, we are advocating for much needed new day stalls at Ascot, finishing the refurbishment and enlargement of the female jockey room and the redevelopment of part of the Tote Building. The Board is also reviewing our non-raceday assets to make sure we are prepared to set the Club up to be financially sustainable long-term. It really is about honouring our history while also investing in the future.
Q: What are your key priorities for the rest of 2025 and beyond?
One of the most important priorities is moving towards becoming an incorporated company limited by guarantee. The WA Turf Club has been governed by the same Act of Parliament since 1892 - it is very antiquated and in need of modernisation.
Remaining unincorporated carries some risk, not just for the Club but also for the Chair, Directors, and even Members in certain circumstances. Incorporation will mean stronger governance, greater transparency, and much more robust oversight — it’s simply the way modern sporting organisations need to operate. The process is not entirely straightforward, but this will remain a focus for us in the coming year.
On a lighter note, with spring and summer around the corner, I am really excited for the racing carnival at Ascot. That means The Pinnacles, Summer and Autumn Racing, Perth Cup, and of course the $5 million Quokka — plus all the fashion, entertainment, and hospitality that come with those events. There is a lot to look forward to, especially after a challenging winter!
Q: What do you see as Perth Racing’s greatest strengths, and how can you build on them?
Two strengths stand out straight away. First, our financial sustainability. We are in a strong position — we do not carry debt, and that gives us a lot of flexibility although our finances still need to be managed very carefully. Second,
our landholdings. Belmont Park sits right at the heart of Perth’s largest residential development on Burswood Point, while Ascot Racecourse is a historic and iconic venue in its own right.
We eagerly await approval of the Club’s proposed structure plan for Ascot, which would give us the opportunity to generate revenue from our existing and under-used land assets. If we manage that carefully, we can set the Club up for decades of sustainability and growth.
Q: Finally, what message would you like to share with Members and the wider racing community?
My message is simple: I’m here to provide steady leadership. The Board has committed to significant investment in our facilities and our future revenue sources, and I want to see this through, for the benefit of Members and participants.
We have a highly professional Board who care deeply about thoroughbred racing and the Club’s future. Our Perth Racing team is working tirelessly to deliver outstanding race day events and experiences. Our focus is not just on today, but on expanding our audience and positioning the Club for a strong, vibrant future and I am very proud to be part of this journey.
ASCOT RACING CARNIVAL
WELCOME BACK TO ASCOT RACECOURSE
And we’re off! The gates of Ascot swing open for another thrilling season of epic entertainment, fabulous fashion and heartracing action.
The Carnival begins with five themed racedays, combining exclusive events with live coverage of Australia’s biggest eastern states races.
Choose your perfect raceday experience. Indulge in the elegance of fine dining in Flying Colours Restaurant, or savour a generous buffet lunch at The Terrace Restaurant. For a more relaxed vibe, General Admission offers the ideal spot to soak up the atmosphere, catch all the racing action, and enjoy food and drinks from a wide selection of bars and eateries.
Day 1
Unite
Resourcing
Ascot Opening Day
WHERE IT ALL BEGINS! Saturday 11 October
The 2025-26 Ascot Racing Carnival kicks off with Unite Resourcing Ascot Opening Day - a celebration of new beginnings and returning favourites. Step into the sunshine and feel the buzz as the curtain rises on a new season of racing. The excitement continues trackside with Party at Ollie’s, our exclusive raceday event on the deck, where you can meet the GOAT, Damien Oliver himself.
*Early bird offers expire 7 days prior to the raceday.
Day 2
Liquor Barons
Sporting Legends Day
FOR CELEBRATING ALL SPORTS SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER
WATCH THE EVEREST & CAULFIELD CUP
Celebrate the triumphs of WA’s sporting greats on Liquor Barons Sporting Legends Day.
From AFL superstars to Olympic medalists, from boxing champions to legendary captains, this special raceday honours WA’s sporting heroes! Plus, party on to international social media sensation Big “Bosh!” John’s Bangers DJ set after the last race.
Day 3 Irish Day
STEP INTO A SEA OF GREEN AND GOOD TIMES Saturday 25 October
It’s the luckiest day of the Carnival! Irish Day is a feel-good favourite filled with laughter, music, and unmistakable Irish cheer. The beating heart of the action is the Irish Hall, where Craic N’ On take the stage, Guinness and Kilkenny flow like the River Liffey from Johnny Fox’s pop-up bar, and belly-warming Irish bites keep the crowd fuelled for an afternoon of laughter, dancing, and non-stop Irish spirit.
Day 4
TABtouch
Derby Day at Ascot
DERBY
THE ULTIMATE BLACK AND WHITE FIT CHECK
Saturday 1 November
Giddy up for Day 4 - put on your finest black and white outfit for a raceday full of excitement, with thrilling racing and elegant fashion on show. Don’t miss your chance to enter the Best Dressed or Best Suited Competition for your shot at fantastic prizes. Enjoy a full afternoon of racing at Ascot Racecourse, featuring two Group 3 races, as well as a live screening of the Derby at Flemington Racecourse in Victoria and the Golden Eagle from Randwick in NSW. Racing enthusiasts, join us in our ultimate tipping competition in TABtouch Punters Club. LIVE SCREENING OF THE VICTORIA
Day 5
TABtouch
Melbourne Cup Day at Ascot
NUMBERPERTH’SONE CUP DAY EXPERIENCE
FOR A DAY OF UNFORGETTABLE CELEBRATIONS
Tuesday 4 November
Get ready for Day 5 - Perth’s biggest and only trackside Cup Day party. Watch the race that stops the nation on our Superscreen, then enjoy live racing and entertainment right here at Ascot Racecourse. Gather your crew for a day packed with stunning fashion, live entertainment, great bars, food trucks, and so much more.
New for the Ascot Spring Racing Carnival season
Making its debut in 2025 is the Black Ruby Lounge, where you can treat yourself to the ultimate raceday experience on TABtouch Melbourne Cup Day at Ascot.
Step into the Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Lounge and immerse yourself in a world of bold flavours, rich ruby hues, and refined raceday indulgence. Experience trackside sophistication reimagined, where every sip is smooth, and every moment feels just a little more special.
Hot Dub Time Machine is blasting into Perth!
Get ready! Swan Draught Railway Stakes Day at Ascot is set to finish with a bang! On Saturday 22 November 2025, internationally acclaimed DJ Hot Dub Time Machine will hit the stage after the last race, bringing his famous “Best. Party. Ever.” to WA’s biggest day of racing.
Swan Draught presents Railway Stakes Day
Saturday 22 November 2025
Hot Dub – the time-travelling alter ego of Sydney’s Tom Lowndes – has wowed crowds at Coachella, Tomorrowland and festivals around the globe.
Now, he brings that same electric energy to Ascot, spinning hits from the 1950s to current day in a nonstop journey through the decades.
Lucy fromFiore Mongolia to the Mounting Yard Q&A
Western Australian jockey Lucy Fiore has just returned from an extraordinary adventure – the Mongol Derby, a 100km endurance journey on horseback across Mongolia with her husband, fellow jockey Brandon. Known for her grit and determination in the saddle at home, Lucy put those qualities to the ultimate test in the remote landscapes of central Asia. Julio Santarello from Racing WA caught up with her to hear about the ride of a lifetime, the challenges along the way, and how it’s shaped her outlook both personally and professionally.
HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU AND BRANDON TO COMPLETE THE JOURNEY?
We had little setbacks. Brandon had a really naughty horse and the saddle slipped forward when it was bucking. A fellow rider from Queensland was behind us and he spent about 25 minutes helping us, then all the herders came and helped us too. We were about 2km from the station and had to go back and get new horses, we finished the morning of day nine.
DID THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS?
Definitely went beyond it. One of the things Brandon and I discussed was that we spent so much time preparing and training for the race that we didn’t think about the people we would meet. We made such good friends and met so many interesting people from around the world. We’ve already got plans to visit and catch up with people. There’s a trip in Patagonia we want to do. The people we met and the friendships we made were an awesome bonus.
WAS IT LIFE CHANGING IN ANY WAY, DID YOU LEARN ANYTHING ABOUT YOURSELF?
Yes. We went over as a challenge to see how hard we could push ourselves and find out what we were capable of. I was hopeful I would have the grit to do it, so I was happy to find out I did have it. You just don’t know until you are out there. Obviously everything hurt, but once you get on and start riding you forget about it. On day four and five it got so painful. Brandon is so good at dealing with pain, he froths on it, whereas I’m not.
HOW SPECIAL WAS IT BEING ABLE TO SHARE THE EXPERIENCE WITH YOUR HUSBAND?
It was incredible. I didn’t have any doubts about us working together as a team, we work together 24/7 at home, so I was pretty confident we would be good. Not that we aren’t close but I felt it brought us closer together and we worked so well as a team.
WOULD YOU EVER DO IT AGAIN OR RECOMMEND THE EXPERIENCE TO ANYONE ELSE?
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who thinks it’s their type of fun – it’s not for everyone. If you have something to prove to yourself, then 100 per cent. If you love horses, if you love a challenge, it’s an adventure. When I finished they said would you do that again and I was like absolutely not, that was such hard work and so painful, I was so glad to finish. But, after a month, 100 per cent I would do that again, no questions asked.
For Lucy, the challenge was not only physical but deeply personal. Like the long seasons in the saddle at home, Mongolia tested her endurance in ways no racetrack could.
ASIDE FROM THE CHALLENGE AND SHARING IT WITH BRANDON, WAS IT GOOD TO GET AWAY AFTER SUCH A SUCCESSFUL SEASON AT HOME – A FRESHEN UP BEFORE ANOTHER YEAR AHEAD?
Definitely, because to be any good you have to live and beathe racing, everyone is watching you and I put pressure on myself, because I want to be riding well. It was just nice to be somewhere in the world where no one knows who you are and no one expects anything of you. It was nice to have no pressure and be as you are.
YOU’RE KEEN TO GET BACK INTO IT?
For sure. I definitely needed a little break. This season, I want to aim for 100 winners again, keep on improving, but I probably won’t do as many miles as last season.
FROM MY PERSPECTIVE, YOU SEEM TO BE IN A REALLY HAPPY SPACE AND CONTENT AT THE MOMENT.
Thank you. Life is amazing. I can’t complain, we have a beautiful farm, I have an amazing husband, we’re living the dream, we live in such a nice area of the world, I would never want to live anywhere else.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST THIS SEASON?
I would like to see where Filthy Habits gets to, he’s had an awesome few seasons and will hopefully go for the Perth Cup, very excited for that. Brandon’s got some really nice horses coming in, just keep doing what I’m doing.
From the steppes of Mongolia back to the tracks of Western Australia, Lucy Fiore’s journey is a reminder of the resilience, spirit, and hunger that defines elite jockeys. While the Mongol Derby tested her to her limits, it also renewed her passion for racing at home. With eyes set on another century of winners and the Perth Cup on the horizon, Fiore’s story is one of adventure, grit, and balance – a life lived fully in and out of the saddle.
RACECOURSE
15 NOVEMBER - 13 DECEMBER 2025
Experience five unforgettable Saturdays at Ascot Racecourse as WA’s premier racing carnival, The Pinnacles (supported by TABtouch), returns.
Spanning November and December, The Pinnacles showcases world-class racing headlined by WA’s three premier Group 1 events – the Railway Stakes, Winterbottom Stakes, and Northerly Stakes.
Day 1
With more than $10.5 million in prizemoney on the line, the carnival draws elite jockeys, trainers and horses from across the nation.
Each raceday promises more than just the thrill of racing - immerse yourself in electrifying entertainment, standout fashion, and an atmosphere that defines the very best of WA racing.
Saturday 15 November TRADITIONALLY A LADIES’ DAY
Quayclean Champion
Fillies’ Day
Gather your girlfriends or treat a special lady in your life for this ladies’ day out at Ascot Racecourse. We will be celebrating the ladies on and off the track, with the Group 3 Quayclean-W.A. Champion Fillies Stakes for 3-year-old fillies. It’s the perfect start to five weeks of fashion, flair, and fierce competition.
Day 2
Saturday 22 November PARTY ON AFTER THE PRESTIGIOUS GROUP 1 EVENT
Day 3
Saturday 29 November HIGH STAKES AND HIGH FASHION
Swan Draught Railway Stakes Day featuring Hot Dub Time Machine
The Group 1 Swan Draught-Railway Stakes is the beating heart of WA racing tradition. An iconic $1.5 million showdown over a mile, that racing fans won’t want to miss. But this year, the action doesn’t stop when the last horse crosses the line.
As the sun sets, Ascot will pump up the beats with an epic DJ set from international party-starter Hot Dub Time Machine. Spinning dancefloor anthems through the decades, he’ll take you on a timetravelling musical journey you won’t forget.
FLASHBACK
RAILWAY STAKES 2024 DON’T MISS THIS EPIC DJ SET
Co-trainers Annabel and Rob Archibald hatched a bold plan for Group 1 glory in Western Australia - and just weeks later, it came to life. The Railway Stakes had been the domain of local heroes in recent years, but Port Lockroy broke the mold, storming home to claim the prize. For jockey Clint Johnston-Porter, it was a career-defining moment, delivering his first Group 1 victory and sparking emotional scenes in the aftermath.
“It’s a huge thrill, I’m so lucky to be in this position. Annabel’s always had so much confidence in this horse, and it was just nice to see a really good ride and for him to deliver on a big stage”, Rob Archibald said.
MCA Polytrack Winterbottom Stakes Day
MCA Polytrack Winterbottom Stakes Day is all about high-speed racing and bold style.
Headlined by WA’s ultimate sprint, the $1.5m Group 1 MCA Polytrack-Winterbottom Stakes over 1200m, it’s a day where champions rise and the crowd turns heads.
Off the track, fashion shines with the iconic Fashions on the Field runway competition, a chance to impress or simply enjoy the spectacle.
FLASHBACK WINTERBOTTOM STAKES 2024
The navy and white of Darby Racing once again made their mark at Ascot Racecourse as star Sydney sprinter Overpass returned to defend his Winterbottom crown. Drawn wide in barrier 16, Josh Parr was forced to settle off the speed, but the champion still loomed large. Sweeping down the middle of the Ascot straight, Overpass powered home to extend his flawless WA record to four wins from as many starts.
FASHIONS ON THE FIELD
“What a racetrack, what a place Perth is. That was a really gutsy win today”, said Bjorn Baker.
Day 4
Saturday 6 December
TRADITIONALLY A GENTLEMEN’S DAY OUT
Day 5
Saturday 13 December
THE FINALE OF THE PINNACLES
TABtouch Northerly Stakes Day
Gentlemen’s Day at Ascot is about more than sharp suits and good company - it’s a celebration of racing at its finest. The centrepiece is the $1.5 million Group 1 TABtouch-Northerly Stakes, a race named in honour of one of Western Australia’s greatest champions. Northerly’s statue stands proudly welcoming guests arriving at Ascot by Governors Drive.
Run over 1800 metres, the Northerly Stakes stands as a love letter to the sport, bringing together pride, passion, and powerful runs on the big stage.
FLASHBACK NORTHERLY STAKES 2024
National heavyweight Ciaron Maher made his presence felt at Ascot Racecourse as six-year-old Light Infantry Man claimed the final Group 1 of the year. After a luckless Railway, the talented galloper found redemption in the Northerly Stakes. Drawn wide in barrier 15, Ethan Brown produced an enterprising ride, rolling forward to sit outside the lead. From there, Light Infantry Man surged clear down the Ascot straight, sealing an emphatic victory.
“Drawing out today really helped us, he was able to lob in a beautiful spot, we were able to control the race and that’s what he wanted, just a flowing ride. He showed his true colors”, said Ethan Brown
Gold Rush Day
Go out with a bang on the final day of The Pinnacles. Bold, bright, and bursting with energy, the grand finale is all about glitz, glamour and celebration.
The $1.5 million Group 3 The Gold Rush over 1400 metres headlines the program. As the sun sets, a live DJ will keep the party going on course, ensuring WA’s premier Racing Carnival finishes in sparkling style.
GOLD RUSH FLASHBACK 2024
Drama struck in Gold Rush week when William Pike was ruled out with injury, forcing Grant and Alana Williams to call on Victorian rider Billy Egan for his first Perth mount. From barrier 15, Western Empire settled near the tail as a hot tempo unfolded. Egan angled wide at the turn and the old marvel stormed down the outside, recapturing past brilliance to land the third running of The Gold Rush in powerful fashion.
“To come here for the first time and win a feature like this - it’s a dream come true”, said Egan of the fairytale finish.
Breeding with heart
Breeder Jo Duncan and the rise of Forest View Farm
On a winery lawn in the Swan Valley, Jo Duncan found herself glued to her phone, surrounded by friends as Super Smink stormed home to win the Karrakatta Plate. The whole place erupted.
“The emotion was everything.”
Moments like that capture the thrill of breeding for Jo and her husband Ben, who run Forest View Farm, one of WA’s most respected boutique operations. For Jo though, it’s about far more than just a race result.
“I’ve always believed that horses are individuals and need to be treated as such,” she explains. “As breeders, we have a responsibility to set them up for life. I want them to be successful on the track, but if they aren’t, they should still have the education and confidence to go on in other equestrian sports.”
The Duncans’ breeding story began modestly, with Infathuated, the first horse bred at Forest View to race at Ascot. Meeting Ben gave Jo a new spark: “Ben had always said he wanted to breed a few to race.”
That decision transformed the farm. “Knowing those very early days, weeks and years of hard work have paid off –that’s the most rewarding part of breeding,” Jo says.
Their highlights include Sixinch Heels’ four consecutive wins at Ascot and Super Smink’s Karrakatta Plate triumph. But both know the sport is as tough as it is exhilarating. “Breeding is a tough gig. We can science and plan as much as we like, but there’s always luck involved –the good and the bad.”
That doesn’t stop Jo from dreaming big. “Breeding a Melbourne Cup winner would be fun!” she grins.
This year, Forest View has its first Lightsaber yearlings, which Jo describes as “really cracking types” Both Duncans are hopeful they’ll deliver on the track. But Jo is frank about broader challenges.
“There are some great breeders coming to the end of their careers, and not many young breeders coming up behind them. That worries me about the future of WA breeding.”
Through it all, Jo carries the advice she’s held close since the beginning. “You never stop learning and trust your own judgements.”
From their very first runner at Ascot to Group-level ambitions, Jo and Ben Duncan have built Forest View Farm on passion, persistence and respect for the horse. And for Jo, the reward is simple.
“At the end of the day, seeing our horses cross the line first makes it all worth it.”
DAMIEN OLIVER
His farewell at Ascot and a racing legacy
“I’m following the races from the other side of the fence now, which has given me a whole new appreciation for the sport.”
Sport has a way of gifting us moments that linger long after the race is run or the final whistle is blown. They’re born out of the mix of disappointment, hope and the bright lights of the big stage.
Often the full weight of these moments only hits us in hindsight. But watching Ollie and Munhamek surge past the Winning Post, there was no delay – we all felt it instantly. It was pure Ollie magic. One of those rare, spine-tingling scenes where you know, even as it happens, that you’ll be talking about it for years to come.
Damien Oliver winning his final three rides in his home state marked a fitting and emotional close to his incredible career. While retirement ends his days in the saddle, Damien’s farewell was a celebration, a chance to honour family, community, and a lifelong passion.
“The overwhelming pressure of not having ridden a winner had really started to build,” Damien recalls of that day. “So to ride the last three races on the card was a dream come true. The crowd was incredible, and the reception I received was truly heartfelt. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.”
Oliver’s treble, including a standout win aboard Munhamek in the Damien Oliver Gold Rush, a race temporarily renamed in his honour. “The pressure was really on to make it a treble, and to win the race named in my honour, my final ride at Ascot. It was a great ride, timed to perfection, weaving through the field to take the win. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable career,” he says.
“It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable career.”
RACING RUNS IN THE FAMILY
Racing runs in the Oliver blood. Damien’s father, Ray Oliver, was a champion WA jockey, and his late brother, Jason Oliver, was also highly respected. “I came from humble beginnings in WA, chasing a dream that took me across Australia and around the world. Over a career spanning more than five decades, I was fortunate to ride in some of the biggest races and compete at the highest level right through to the very end,” Damien reflects.
OLLIE’S BAR: A PERMANENT TRIBUTE
Ascot Racecourse now honours Damien with Ollie’s Bar, a permanent space celebrating his career. “It’s a huge honour to have in such a historic building - a place where racing enthusiasts can come to reflect, enjoy, and share memories of my career. Knowing that my journey has been preserved in this way means a great deal to me,” Damien says.
Racing fans will have the chance to meet Damien in person at Ollie’s Bar during the Opening Day of our Ascot Racing Carnival on 11 October 2025, a unique opportunity to toast his career and reminisce about the achievements of a local legend.
LIFE AFTER THE SADDLE
Transitioning to life out of the saddle has been an adjustment. “The first year of retirement has been quite different - no more early morning starts or strict schedules to follow. I’ve enjoyed sleeping in and eating what I like, when I like! I do miss the people and the banter - there’s nothing quite like the camaraderie and friendships you find in racing,” Damien says.
He continues to stay involved in the sport by mentoring young apprentice jockeys, speaking at racing media events, and serving as an ambassador. “I’m following the races from the other side of the fence now, which has given me a whole new appreciation for the sport I’ve dedicated my life to,” he adds.
ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
For aspiring jockeys, Damien offers timeless advice: “Enjoy what you do. If you love it and truly apply yourself, success will follow. Not every day will be a win, but those tough days are part of the journey — you put them down to experience and keep your focus on the next raceday.”
“To ride the last three races on the card was a dream come true.”
HOMETOWN FAREWELL
Damien Oliver’s last ride at Ascot was a perfect way to finish his career in his hometown, surrounded by family, friends, and fans. “I came from humble beginnings in WA, and to have my journey remembered here in my hometown, at Ascot, is very special,” he says.
From father to brother to son, the Oliver family has left an indelible mark on WA racing. Damien’s story, now permanently embedded at Ascot, continues to inspire racing fans and the next generation of jockeys.
DAMIEN OLIVER TRIVIA
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Damien rode over 3,000 winners.
He won three Melbourne Cups, two Cox Plates, and the Caulfield Cup, making him one of Australia’s most successful jockeys.
Damien’s father, Ray Oliver, and brother Jason Oliver were both respected figures in WA racing, creating a family legacy.
His last treble at Ascot included a win aboard Zousan in the Gold Rush Handicap, his final ride in his hometown.
Ollie’s Bar at Ascot features memorabilia, photographs, and stories from Damien’s career — a living museum for racing enthusiasts.
TABTOUCH
PERTH CUP DAY
THURSDAY 1 JANUARY 2026
Ring in the New Year with the biggest party in WA racing - TABtouch Perth Cup Day. Celebrated as one of Ascot’s most iconic traditions, it’s the ultimate way to welcome 2026 with friends, fashion, and first-class racing.
The prestigious Group 2 TABtouch Perth Cup headlines a powerhouse program, with every race adding to the excitement and atmosphere. When the final horse has crossed the line, the celebrations keep rolling as a live band takes over, transforming the track into a New Year’s party under the summer sky.
YOUR TICKET OPTIONS
For the ultimate, all-inclusive experience celebrate New Year’s Day in Champagne Oasis. Get up close to the racing action in Swan Draught Beer Club, or party it up in The Sanctuary with exclusive access to the Leger Lawn Marquee.
Swan Draught Beer Garden | From $210
Champagne Oasis | From $360
The Sanctuary | From $265
Flying Colours Restaurant | From $325
The Terrace Restaurant | From $210
General Admission | Early bird from $30*
Under 18s | Free entry with responsible adult
Our
restaurants
Located in our Grandstand with magnificent views of the racetrack and beyond, our restaurants are open every Saturday raceday. All bookings must be made in advance.
TO START
Assorted breads, extra virgin olive oil, Beurre D’Isigny, black sea salt
ENTRÉE
Pink gin cured king salmon, crème fraiche, pickled shallots, beetroot crisps, lemon aspen
MAIN COURSE, CHOICE OF Stirling Ranges beef tenderloin, Somerset cheddar croquette, parsnip puree, sautéed seasonal mushrooms, shiraz jus OR Lemon myrtle and herb-crusted Geraldton coral cod, cauliflower crème, pancetta, broad beans, peas, Warrigal greens OR Truffle Mushroom ravioli, Jerusalem artichoke puree, sauteed mushrooms, crispy saltbush
DESSERT
Vanilla bean and navel orange buttercream gâteau, citrus curd, white chocolate pearls
TO FINISH
Selection of Australian and imported cheeses, quince, muscatels, crispbreads
Indulge in a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet at The Terrace Restaurant, perfect for a day out with friends and family. Relax at your exclusive reserved table, with the Lower Terrace ideal for intimate groups and the Upper Terrace catering to larger gatherings.
Spring has sprung and it’s a vibrant time for fresh local produce.This season we’re thrilled to showcase WA-sourced products such as Exmouth prawns and fresh coral cod from the North West, Plantagenet pork, and Southern black truffles from the South West region. We’re also celebrating native ingredients, including Warrigal greens and saltbush, to intensify flavours while respecting each ingredient. Menus across the venue pay tribute to the simplicity of spring’s finest offerings, creating unforgettable dining experiences for our guests.
- Matthew Brookes, Executive Chef
Delight in a plated lunch at Flying Colours Restaurant on the Member Floor, with breathtaking views of the racecourse. Indulge in a 4-course menu (5 courses on major Carnival days) with a variety of food & beverage to suit all tastes. Each table comes with a flat screen TV as well as dedicated wait staff.
SAMPLE MENU
SATURDAY 18 APRIL 2026
WA’S RICHEST EVER RACEDAY
$5,000,000
