2023/24 Thoroughbred Owners Season Guide

THOROUGHBRED OWNERS SEASON GUIDE

Front cover picture

The owners of Super Smink celebrate after winning the 2023 Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic at Pinjarra Park.

WELCOME FROM CEO IAN EDWARDS

On behalf of Racing WA, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support as a Western Australian thoroughbred owner.

Your loyalty and investment as an owner are vital to the ongoing success of our racing industry – without your involvement we would not have the great privilege of enjoying racing all around our great State.

The 2022/23 season marked many significant milestones for WA racing, including:

· Hosting our inaugural slot race, The Quokka, which saw top quality sprinters descend on Ascot to vie for the $4 million prize pool;

Successfully rebranding our summer carnival to The Pinnacles, extending it to five feature races across five race days, with more than $10.5 million in prize money; and,

Announcing base stakes increases of almost $5.7 million overall added to the prize pool of thoroughbred racing for 2023/2024.

While it is terrific to look back on last season, it is with a great sense of excitement that I welcome you to the 2023/24 season – which is set to offer thoroughbred owners a record amount of prize money and, of course, many great events to attend.

Racing WA’s dedicated ownership team is committed to continually enhancing the program and I thank all owners who took the opportunity to provide feedback in the latest annual owner survey.

We have taken this feedback on board to enhance the offering for all owners across our State.

Increased funding

With racing contributing a record $1.3 billion to the WA economy each year, we have again increased funding ahead of the new season.

With an additional $5.7 million added to prize money, there has never been a better time to race a horse in Western Australia.

You will find all the information you need such as Racing WA and Race Club contact details, and key dates on upcoming owner events.

We are excited about what’s ahead, including the Pinnacles Carnival, which promises to provide many memorable experiences for owners on track, and the revitalised Perth Cup which is set to benefit from a doubling of prizemoney from $500,000 to $1 million for 2024.

Thank you once again for your ongoing involvement in racing and we look forward to bringing you an enhanced ownership program for the 2023/24 season.

Kind Regards,

Ian Edwards Racing WA CEO

WELCOME FROM CHIEF RACING OFFICER DAVID HUNTER

Welcome to the exciting 2023/24 racing season, which features record prize money and a calendar filled with premium racing across our vast State.

Along with my thanks for your ongoing support, I’d like to offer some insights into the latest enhancements to the West Australian racing program. A range of initiatives were introduced in the 2022/23 season, with highlights including:

· The re-imagining of the spring racing carnival as The Pinnacles

The introduction of the $1.5 million Gold Rush

The launch of WA’s richest ever thoroughbred race, The Quokka, with $4 million in prize money.

There were also incredible performances on the track. No one who watched Amelia’s Jewel run down the eastern states raider Overpass on the Ascot straight will ever forget the moment when they crossed the line side by side. Or the groan of the crowd when the big screen image showed WA’s darling had narrowly missed out on winning the state’s first-ever thoroughbred slot race, The Quokka.

Already the biggest prize ever offered in West Australian racing, the $4 million Quokka will again break the record next year by jumping to $5 million.

The extra $1 million elevates The Quokka to the top echelon of races across Australia.

In regional WA, we’re proud to reopen racing at the hugely improved Bunbury racecourse, following a $25 million development.

South West owners will enjoy one of the best venues in the State, with new facilities for training nearly 300 extra horses and track upgrades enabling year-round racing at Bunbury.

Racing WA’s commitment to investing in regional racing is expected to produce $36.2 million in direct expenditure for the Bunbury area and provide owners with more premium race day experiences.

Racing WA’s recently announced a further $3.76 million boost in prize money for the 2023/24 season. Benefits across the State include:

Perth Cup moving from $500,000 to $1 million

· A new $25,000 Magic Millions bonus for the first all-female-owned horse to cross the line in the Magic Millions three-year-old trophy

· Prize money boosts to the Albany Cup, Fitzpatrick Plate, Geraldton Cup and Batavia Sprint

· All community cup races now offer $30,000 in prize money.

Our dedicated ownership services and operations teams are available throughout the season to help you make the most of your ownership experience. See a handy list of contacts on page 67 for assistance with any enquiries. Thank you again for supporting WA racing and I look forward to seeing you at the track.

Kind Regards,

David Hunter Chief Racing Officer

THE MAGIC OF OWNERSHIP IN WA

There has never been a better time to get involved as a thoroughbred owner in WA.

With prizemoney soaring to record levels, excitement still in the air from WA’s first-ever slot race the $4 million The Quokka, record yearling sales and the successful Westspeed bonus scheme going from strength to strength, WA racing is in the midst of a golden era.

Owners, with shares big or small and ranging from prominent business figures to everyday Australians, are reaping the rewards.

The relatively inexpensive price of a yearling from the Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale ($73,576 in 2023) compared to metropolitan Saturday prizemoney of $80,000, plus Westspeed bonuses up to $33,000, makes WA one of the most lucrative states in the nation to race a horse in.

Syndicates continue to rise in popularity, providing people from all walks of life the opportunity to experience the thrill of racehorse ownership at a fraction of the cost.

The success of syndicates in WA reached a new level when a group of more than 30 mates won the state’s richest race, The Quokka, at Ascot in April.

The Rockingham RAM Racing Syndicate, mostly comprised of mates from local footy clubs, almost tore the Ascot grandstand down when their slot representative Overpass held off superstar filly Amelia’s Jewel in a thrilling finish.

It was a fairytale result for the self-confessed bluecollar battlers, who had to battle more powerful slotholders to strike a deal with connections of Overpass to run him in their slot.

“It goes to show a group of horse racing lovers can do something special,” syndicate manager Stuart Campbell said.

“You don’t necessarily need to be a big corporate, just a group of mates with the same passion.

“To be a part of history is something special.”

Gary Dickie has been a popular figure in WA racing for many years, but a recent change in his approach to ownership has proven fruitful.

He achieved a rare feat at Belmont on July 1 when landing a trifecta as a part-owner of two-year-olds Rope Them In, Paris Calling and More Special.

“Small shares in racehorses is the only way to go,” Dickie said.

“Get plenty of small shares and you have the same fun.

^ RAM Racing Syndicate Manager Stuart Campbell with the 2023 TABtouch Quokka trophy after Overpass won the $4 million sprint.

“I’ve been in racing all my life, but it was the Westspeed bonuses that got me going a couple of years ago.

“Good stables, good friends, it’s just wonderful. It’s good to get a return.”

Danielle Pratt was one of 23 female owners of Man Booker, who put all-female syndicates on the map after winning more than $1 million in prizemoney.

The primary school teacher has since revelled in the thrill of being a part-owner of top gallopers such as Dainty Tess, Clairvoyance, Super Smink and Vast Art.

“It’s a rollercoaster, but I wouldn’t swap it for anything else in the whole world,” Pratt said.

“I love the buzz, the thrill and the adrenaline rush it gives you.

“It’s for everyone, too. My dad is almost 94 and he’s still buying shares in horses!”

With all-women syndicates exploding since the success of Man Booker, Racing WA and Magic Millions introduced a $75,000 WA Racing Women’s Bonus for eligible runners in the $250,000 Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic, held each February at Pinjarra.

The first all-female owned horse past the post scores a $60,000 cheque on top of the race prizemoney.

Racing WA and Magic Millions have also announced a similar bonus of $25,000 for the Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy on the same day from 2025.

“When we raced Man Booker, the all-ladies syndicate was just a novelty,” Pratt said.

“Now there are more than 100 of them!

“Big syndicates are more of a thing now and it makes it pretty affordable.

“I’ve made lifelong friends from being in them and nothing beats sharing the ups with them all.”

The reimagined Ascot carnival, The Pinnacles, helped lift WA racing with four $1.5 million features over consecutive Saturdays, including the first running of The Gold Rush last year.

Trix Of The Trade’s sensational Railway Stakes victory was the highlight, delivering owners Bill and Pat Robinson their dream Group 1 win.

Bill Robinson, a former apprentice jockey now in his 90s, spent several decades owning and breeding gallopers in search of a horse as good as Trix Of The Trade.

“He’s a once-in-a-lifetime horse and it’s everyone’s dream to have a horse like him,” Bill Robinson said.

“I started off with small shares in syndicates and then started racing and breeding them myself.

“I get great enjoyment from naming my horses.

“It’s very satisfying having a horse as good as Trix Of The Trade at my age.”

From an owner in his 90s winning the Railway to the world’s most powerful racing operation, Godolphin, conquering the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes a week later with Paulele, The Pinnacles provided further proof that the sport of kings is for everyone.

And the thrill of owning a winner spreads far and wide across our great state, whether you’re cheering home your horse from the owners’ exclusive deck at Ascot, The Vantage, as far north as Kununurra or as far south as Albany.

Jay Rooney | Racing Reporter

The West Australian and The Sunday Times

^ Gary Dickie (centre) with co-owners lead Rope Them In to the Winners’ Circle at Belmont Park.

^ Danielle Pratt and her father Lance Langford with the 2023 Amelia Park Karrakatta Plate trophy.

OWNERSHIP SURVEY FINDINGS

1397 WA Thoroughbred Owners completed our survey in May 2023 which gave us the following results:

Top 3

most important aspects as an owner when attending a race meeting:

Access to your horse 1

Access to good viewing/able to watch my horse race 2

Access to owner exclusive areas/ facilities on course 3

74% of respondents were aware of The Vantage

80.5% of those aware have attended The Vantage (Ascot or Belmont)

76%

of owners use social media to find Racing news.

Top 3 social media channels used:

13.6%

42% have created an account on Racing Australia’s ‘Myhorseracing (MHR) portal’

Top 3

important factors when deciding to purchase a share in a horse:

Horse’s pedigree 1

Trainer of the horse 2

3

You Spoke, We Listened!

#1 Factor

when selecting a trainer = Communication + Being Kept Informed

Top preferences for a regional ownership event

Northam 3 Pinjarra 1 Bunbury 2

63% of respondents have only one trainer | 37% have two or more trainers.

73.5% of owners prefer a cocktail style event | 20.9% prefer a sit down style with table service

47% of respondents are extremely satisfied with current level of communication/services offered by their horse trainer.

Top 3

suggestions to improve your race day experience as an owner:

Bigger area for owners/not so crowded 1

Improve viewing from The Vantage at Belmont Park 2 Different food options – healthier + more substantial 3

45% of owners who received an invitation attended an Owners Only event

83% of respondents were satisfied with events offered

Check out the enhancements we are making to the ownership program based on the survey results:

1) Enhancement to the food offering at The Vantage

2) Increased capacity at The Vantage

3) New owner events to take place at Bunbury, Pinjarra Park and Northam

4) Focus on Facebook to inform owners of upcoming events and networking opportunities

WHAT IS IN STORE THIS SEASON

As a WA racehorse owner you have exclusive opportunities to attend any of the following events this season. Check out what we have planned:

Saturday 7 October 2023

Owners Only

Kalgoorlie Cup Marquee

Kalgoorlie Racecourse

The Owners Only Kalgoorlie Cup Marquee is a celebration of owners in the ‘Goldfields – Esperance’ region. Tickets include gate entry, food & beverages throughout the afternoon, tipping competitions, and entertainment within an exclusive marquee. Get set to enjoy the warm Goldfields hospitality.

Sunday 22 October 2023

Ladies in Ownership Cocktail Soiree

The Stables Bar, Perth

Ladies, this is the event of the year! One of the quickest events to sell out, this is a celebration of female participation in racing and the collective love of the horse. This event is open to all women owners, whether they’re involved in a Magic Millions Racing Women’s horse or not. Expect plenty of bubbles, laughs and entertainment as we get the party started! Tickets include canapes, beverages, and entry to the event.

Saturday 7 October 2023

Saturday 9 December 2023

Owners Only

Northerly Stakes Marquee

Ascot Racecourse

The Owners Only Northerly Stakes Marquee is our only event to take place during The Pinnacles Racing Carnival. Tickets include gate entry, food & beverages for the duration of the event, tipping competitions, door prizes and guest speakers. Celebrate the fighting tiger in style by wearing a touch of yellow. Tickets are expected to sell fast.

Saturday 17 February 2024

The Vantage Magic Millions Race Day

Pinjarra Racecourse

Own a runner on Magic Millions Race Day? Expect an invite to The Vantage, an exclusive marquee area for owners to enjoy at Pinjarra Park. Owners will receive a complimentary drink with a choice of light refreshments throughout the afternoon. Invites will be sent prior to the day.

Sunday 7 April 2024

Owners Only Geraldton Cup Marquee

Geraldton Racecourse

Cup Day is the highlight of the season for the Geraldton Turf Club and Owners Only returns to the track to reward and recongise owners in the Mid West region. Tickets include gate entry, racebook, food and beverages and more. This hosted event will see owners compete for prize giveaways and tipping competitions.

Saturday 7 October 2023

13 July 2024

Owners Only Appreciation Race Day

Belmont Park Racecourse

The second event of the Appreciation Series takes place on Beaufine Stakes Day at Belmont Park. Here owners who may have missed out on the first event are able to enjoy a fabulous day trackside celebrating ownership in WA.

* Times and Dates are subject to change.

Saturday 7 October 2023

Saturday 29 June 2024

Owners Only Appreciation Race Day

Belmont Park Racecourse

The first of three Owner Appreciation Events returns to Belmont Park Racecourse where owners can enjoy a fun race day with fellow owners with great views of the course at the Peninsula Room. The feature race on the day will be the $100,000 Westspeed Platinum Winter Final.

Saturday 27 July 2024

Owners Only Appreciation Race Day

Belmont Park Racecourse

The final event of the series allows owners who missed out on the first two events to gather their fellow owners and enjoy a premium day of racing, featuring the $125,000 Listed H.G. Bolton Sprint at Belmont Park.

PRIZEMONEY IN WA

There has never been a better time to own a thoroughbred in Western Australia with an additional $30 million in funding by 2025. Check out the prizemoney on offer below:

Metro Saturday

Ascot, Belmont

Midweek +

Inner Provincial

Ascot, Belmont, Bunbury, Northam, Pinjarra

Outer Provincial

Albany, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Mount Barker

Country Broome, Esperance

Country Other

Carnarvon, Narrogin, York, Port Hedland, Roebourne

It pays to be WESTSpeed… but it pays more to buy platinum

WESTSPEED PLATINUM RACE DAY

Saturday 23 December 2023

More than $13 million is ready to be won this racing season as the Westspeed program ramps up rewards for locally bred horses.

The Westspeed concept was introduced in 1999 to encourage support from owners and trainers for the local breeding sector and has been steadily boosted in recent years.

The Westspeed Platinum Race Day was launched in 2021 to further reward owners and breeders of locally bred horses with big prizemoney and bonuses on offer. More than $1 million is up for grabs on Saturday 23 December 2023 with eight Westspeed Platinum Races to be run, seven of which are $125,000 each.

$125K TBWA Westspeed Platinum Plate 1000m (2YO)

$125K Westspeed Platinum Sires Stakes 1200m (3YO)

$125K Epona Classic (RTG 66+ 1200m F&M)

$125K TBWA Stallion Tender Scheme Trophy (RTG 66+ 1200m C&G)

$125K WA Westspeed Platinum Mile (RTG 66+ 1600m)

$125K Westspeed Platinum Cup (RTG 66+ 2100m)

$125K Westspeed Platinum Sprint (RTG 72+ 1400m)

$50K Own The Dream Maiden

Also featuring:

$300K Ted Van Heemst Stakes (G2 WFA 2100m)

^ 2022 TBWA Stallion Tender Scheme Trophy Winner, Halatorion (Oratorio x Hallowell Lane)

^ Westspeed Platinum Mile Winner, Knot Secret (So Secret x Tribulot)

^ Own The Dream Maiden Winner, Feels Playful (Playing God x Feels Like Spring)

TAKE YOUR RACE DAY TO THE NEXT LEVEL AT THE VANTAGE

The Vantage is a venue exclusively for racehorse owners to enjoy on the day their horse is racing at Ascot or Belmont Park Racecourse.

The Venues

The Vantage at Ascot Racecourse

Upper Deck

The Upper Deck of The Vantage now includes the former ‘Winners’ Bar’ which has relocated to ‘The Yarradale Room’. The additional space has provided extra capacity at this venue which includes a second bar to service more owners. A TABtouch tote machine and TV screens featuring Sky 1, Sky 2 and continuous replays are available at the venue. The Upper Deck is only accessible by stairs.

Lower Beer Garden

First launched in 2022 to further increase capacity at The Vantage, the Lower Beer Garden is a popular spot for owners and trainers to enjoy under the shade of the umbrellas in a more relaxed setting. The area includes a fully serviced bar with TV screens displaying Sky 1. Located nearby is a TOTE facility with restrooms a short walk away.

The Vantage at Belmont Park Racecourse

Old Mates Bar

The Vantage at Belmont Park first opened in 2022 and has become a popular facility for owners on race day. Located alongside the Old Mates Bar on the Ground Level, The Vantage at Belmont provides a relaxed setting enjoyed by owners, with plenty of screens to witness all the racing action.

Step 1

Gate entry

Upon arrival to either Matheson Rd or Grandstand Rd gates, display your photo ID to gain FREE access for you and one (1) x guest. Only owners who are named in the racebook will receive FREE entry. The Owner Admission Report will also include owners who are involved in a syndicate. Guests of owners MUST be present with the owner to obtain guest access.

Step 2

Collect your entitlements

Now you’re on course, proceed to the Race Day Administration Office tto collect the following entitlements: including your tickets required to access The Vantage.

a Mounting Yard Pass (up to 20 - Managed by Perth Racing)

a Complimentary Race Book (up to 20 - Managed by Perth Racing)

Above privileges are capped at twenty (20) tickets per horse. Syndicates with more than 20 members will need to liaise with their syndicate manager. Racing WA and Perth Racing will not be responsible for the issuing of tickets to select individuals unless otherwise notified and confirmed via email at owner@rwwa.com.au before 12pm on the day prior.

Please note: Each individual owner will need to collect their individual entitlements. Multiple entitlements cannot be provided to individuals on the behalf of others.

Step 3

Proceed to The Vantage

Now you have your owner entitlements, please proceed to The Vantage to collect your wristband and beverage token. You will have the option to enjoy the Upper Deck or Lower Beer Garden throughout the afternoon.

How are entitlements allocated on race day?

It is the responsibility of Syndicate Managers, Trainers or Managing Owners to coordinate the passes on race day for their group of owners. We encourage owners to be proactive with informing their Managing Owner if they wish to be included in the ticket allocation.

All owners will still receive an email prior to race day which provides all the information about The Vantage and collection of tickets. This is NOT a guaranteed ticket.

Racing WA Owners Only and Perth Racing will each have staff on course at the Race Day Administration Office to assist owners with all enquiries.

Please ensure you are respectful and kind to the staff who are managing the delivery of owner entitlements across the course.

Western Racepix proudly provides a variety of photography services to the WA horse racing industry. We cover all thoroughbred race meetings at Ascot, Belmont, Albany, Broome, Bunbury, Carnarvon, Geraldton, Mount Barker, Narrogin, Northam, Pinjarra, York, as well as selected interstate and international meetings.

We also specialise in yearling and stallion photography, as well as providing photographic coverage of numerous industry events. Our photographs have appeared in a variety of local and national publications and websites, with major clients including The West Australian Newspaper, The Sunday Times, TABform, RWWA, Perth Racing, Magic Millions, TABtouch, Punters.com.au, TDN Aus & NZ, ANZ Bloodstock News, OzRace.com.au, Inglis, and many others. We also provide social media photos for many leading trainers and race clubs.

Our core business is the production and sale of racing photos, complete with race and owners details, framed and ready to hang on the wall. We do all the design, printing and framing of our products in-house, and pride ourselves on providing high quality products at a reasonable cost and in a timely manner.

Owner/Operator Simon Merritt has worked as a horse racing photographer for over 14 years. He is extremely passionate about the industry and is involved in the ownership of several racehorses.

If there is anything we can help you with, please don’t hesitate to contact us at simon@westernracepix.com

Ascot Racing Carnival

30 Black Type Races

Cover Image: Paulele and Ben Melham, winners of the Crown Perth Winterbottom Stakes

TABtouch-Placid Ark Stakes

$500,000 LR 3YO SW (1200m) 18 November 2023

The TABtouch Placid Ark Stakes is a Listed race over 1200 metres exclusively for threeyear-old gallopers. The race honours Placid Ark, the first flying machine to complete the Melbourne sprinters triple crown of the Lightning Stakes, the Oakleigh Plate and the Newmarket Handicap in the same year.

When stablemates Revitup and Just Go turned at the top of the straight alongside each other, it looked as if trainer Dion

Luciani was going to pinch the 2022 TABtouch Placid Ark Stakes with one of his front-running pair. However, it was another of the talented horseman’s youngsters which was poised to taste success – My Bella Mae.

The Deep Field filly, who is also prepared by Luciani, enjoyed a perfect run over the 1200m journey tucked in behind the speed. She was presented by Patrick Carbery at the 200m mark and, what looked to be effortlessly, just cruised past her rivals to score by almost two-lengths.

MY BELLA MAE

Furphy-Railway Stakes

$1,500,000

G1 3UP HCP (1600m) 25

November 2023

The Railway Stakes holds a special place in the hearts of the city’s people. It is Perth’s oldest Group One race, an illustrious contest with a proud history dating back to Nimrod’s 1887 New Year’s Eve victory.

Western Empire won the 2021 Railway Stakes as one of the shortest-priced favourites in the race’s rich history, but the 2022 event was a wide-open affair.

Could emerging mare Karli’s Karma win? What about the cantankerous Searchin’ Roc’s? Comfort Me is always gallant, while Ironclad has solid Victorian form.

Ultimately, it was Trix Of The Trade – who was subject to confident late betting – and Troy Turner who handed veteran trainer Colin Webster Group 1 success.

The Trade Fair gelding let the speed battle unfold, before zapping his rivals late for a memorable victory.

First

Second

Third

Fourth

Fifth

Sixth

TRIX OF THE TRADE

Sky Racing-W.A. Guineas

$500,000

G2 3YO SW (1600m) 25 November 2023

The Sky Racing-W.A. Guineas is a valuable feature exclusively for three-year-olds and its winner frequently proceeds to the Drummond Golf-Northerly Stakes to take on the older horses.

After being dealt her first career loss in the Listed Burgess Queen the start prior, the Simon Miller camp were keen to strike back with star WA filly Amelia’s Jewel in the 2022 WA Guineas.

The 14-horse field boasted some serious three-year-old talent, with the likes of Bustler, Saintorio and All The King’s Men all taking part.

Despite the quality line-up, punters zeroed in on Amelia’s Jewel, backing her into a $1.90 market elect… and she didn’t let them down.

She was trapped three-wide and four-wide throughout, but still let rip with a scintillating turn-of-foot to emerge victorious.

Crown Perth-Winterbottom Stakes $1,500,000 G1 3UP SWFA (1200m) 2 December 2023

The Crown Perth-Winterbottom Stakes is Australia’s last Group One sprint of the year and its past victors include Takeover Target, Ortensia and Buffering, all of whom won at the highest level in foreign lands

The powerful Godolphin army descended on Ascot with the 2022 Winterbottom in their sights, targeting Group 1 riches for potential future stallions Vilana and Paulele.

Godolphin’s two-prong attack was reduced to one in the lead up to the race with Vilana a late scratching, leaving Paulele as their sole representative.

Piloted by Ben Melham, Paulele dropped to the rear of the field from gate 15 as Indian Pacific and Massimo set a strong tempo in front.

The son of Dawn Approach still had all 15 rivals in front of him with 250m to run, however, he reeled off a scorching 11.03-second final furlong to beat Kissonallfourcheeks by the barest of margins.

Drummond Golf-Northerly Stakes

$1,500,000 G1 3UP SWFA (1800m) 9 December 2023

The Northerly Stakes (formerly Kingston Town Classic) was renamed last year to honour the WA champion who collected a Caulfield & WS Cox Plate, plus career prizemoney of almost $9.5million. The Drummond Golf-Northerly Stakes is the southern hemisphere’s richest Group One event over this distance.

The 2022 Northerly Stakes had most of pundits asking: could Amelia’s Jewel maintain her devastating dash over 1800m?

The daughter of Siyouni had proven she was elite over 1200m, 1400m and 1600m, but there were still queries of her talents beyond a mile. And if she could run a strong 1800m, could she beat Godolphin’s talented Cascadian?

Those uncertainties were put to bed when the Simon Millerprepared three-year-old beat her more seasoned rivals by one-length… with a sense of arrogance, too.

The strength of Amelia’s Jewel’s performance will forever overshadow Ironclad’s front-running effort, John Allen’s smooth ride aboard Steinem and Cascadian’s sustained run after being posted very wide throughout.

Sixth

The TABtouch Gold Rush

$1,500,000 G3 3UP SWFA (1400m) 16 December 2023

The TABtouch Gold Rush, is the culminating event of The Pinnacles. An opportunity for winners of the previous sprint and distance events to come together and settle who really is the ‘best in the west’.

The Astrologist struck what he was after in 2022’s inaugural Gold Rush, after being sent to WA on a prospecting mission by Victoria’s Leon and Troy Corstens.

Similar to those who came across the Nullarbor in search of the precious metal in the late 1890s, the Goldrush awarded grand fortunes to The Astrologist.

With William Pike in the saddle, The Astrologist defied Kissonallfourcheek’s late lunge to win the inaugural Group 3 feature.

The ever-consistent Comfort Me wasn’t too far behind, running third for Rhys Radford, while Titan Blinders produced an eye-catching effort for fourth at $101.

Fourth

THE ASTROLOGIST

TABtouch-Perth Cup $1,000,000 G2 3UP HCP (2400m) 1 January 2024

BUSTER BASH

First

Second

Third

Fourth

The Perth Cup is Western Australia's premier race meetings traditionally held on New Year's Day. The Group 2 race boasts an increased total prize pool of $1,000,000, making it an attractive target for local and interstate gallopers.

Buster Bash stamped his authority as a tenacious stayer in the 2023 Group 2 Perth Cup, striding to a commanding four-length victory.

Handing hoop Shaun McGruddy his first Perth Cup, the David Harrison-trained gelding romped home to salute in one of the most dominant WA staying performances in recent memory.

The bold on-speed effort was simply too strong for the fast-finishing Stafford’s Lad, who was set a major task of reeling in Buster Bash.

Winners of the following races shall be

from ballot in this race: 2023 Matriarch Stakes, Queen’s Cup, Ballarat Cup, AJ Scahill Cup, ATC Cup, Zipping Classic, Sandown Cup, Pakenham Cup, GA Towton Cup, Christmas Cup, ATA Stakes & Ted Van Heemst Stakes.

JOIN THE CLUB

Enjoy the Benefits!

Get instant access to Perth Racing Member areas plus exclusive rewards including:

• 10% discount on food and beverage in all areas

• $10 credit for every $50 spent on the same day

• Convenient Member raceday parking

• Reciprocal privileges at selected race clubs

• $50 birthday voucher

Club Single: $330

Club Double: $544 Industry: $330

Young: $242 Gold: $1,595 Country, Interstate & International: $330

AROUND THE STATE

Racing has a presence in every region of WA, with 33 race clubs spread across the state. Each race club and their respective area have their own uniqueness, which means there is a racing destination out there for everyone.

RACING IN WA

STRETCHES AS FAR NORTH AS KUNUNURRA TO THE SOUTH OF ALBANY

Planning on attending a race meeting around WA?

Pinjarra Race Club

The Club hosts the rich Magic Millions 2YO Classic and 3YO Trophy each February ahead of the Yearling

Below are

Peel

The Peel region is located only 75 kilometres south of Perth, with a diverse landscape incorporating 50 kilometres of pristine coastline and urban, agricultural, and horticultural land. The Peel region has one thoroughbred race club:

Pinjarra Race Club

pinjarrapark.com.au

Facebook: @pinjarra.park | Instagram: @pinjarrapark | X: @PinjarraPark

Pinjarra Park racecourse is located in the south region of Peel, an hour’s drive from Perth or 10 minutes from the beachside holiday location, Mandurah. The Darling Range Scarp forms the backdrop of the racecourse and completes the idyllic country-style image. Racing takes place from December through until August.

Feature Race Days

- Saturday 17 February 2024

Magic Millions WA Race Day

- Sunday 24 March 2024

Pinjarra Cup

details to equip you in contacting a regional race club:

South West

The South West is located in the south-western corner of Australia and is one of WA’s most popular tourist destinations. There are two thoroughbred race clubs in the region:

Bunbury Turf Club bunburyturfclub.com.au

Facebook: @Bunburyturfclub

Instagram: @bunburyturfclub

X: @bunburyturfclub

Situated in Bunbury, a beautiful city only two hours south of Perth, the Bunbury Turf Club is one of WA’s leading provincial race clubs. In 2021, Bunbury Racecourse began its redevelopment to include new tracks and horse stalls as well as better track drainage. Its season runs from November to April, climaxing with its autumn racing carnival.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 9 March 2024

Bunbury Stakes/Bunbury Cup Day

Collie Race Club

facebook.com/collieraceclub

Instagram: @collieraceclub

Collie Racecourse is located in the south west region of WA and is a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Perth. Collie Race Club has a 1720 metre racetrack and modern facilities with grassed area, under cover area with bar, canteen, tote, and wheelchair access to all areas. Collie Race Clubs holds an annual race meeting in October.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 28 October 2023

Collie Cup

Bunbury Turf Club

A drive to the Bunbury Races is a popular pastime for most owners

Great Southern

The Great Southern region is located on the south coast of WA. The Great Southern is home to four thoroughbred race clubs:

Albany Racing Club albanyracingclub.com

Facebook: @albanyracingclub

Instagram: @albanyracingclub

X: @albanyracing

Albany Racing Club is a 4.5-hour drive from Perth. With views of the Albany Wind Farm and Mt Melville in the distance, the Albany Racing Club is a great place to be trackside to enjoy fashion, a friendly atmosphere, place a bet or socialise. The race club hosts 14 race meeting per year from November through to May.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 10 March 2024

Bluff Knoll Slot Race

- Sunday 31 March 2024

Albany Cup

Kojonup Race Club facebook.com/WandeclaRaces

Instagram: @wandecla_races

Kojonup racecourse is located a 3-hour drive southeast from Perth. Kojonup Race Club has recently undergone renovations and hosts an annual race which includes free kid’s entertainment, Dash for Cash, Fashions on the Field, live music and camping facilities.

Feature Race Day

- February 2024

Kojonup Cup

|

Mt Barker Turf Club mtbarkerturfclub.com.au

Facebook: @mtbarkerturfclub

Instagram: @mtbarkerturfclub

Located in the heart of the Great Southern, Mount Barker Racecourse is a four-hour drive from Perth and a half-hour drive from Albany. Mount Barker’s season runs from November to March. The annual Grapes and Gallops Race Day attracts a large attendance each January which celebrates the local wine industry and racing industries.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 28 January 2024

Mt Barker Sprint/ Grapes and Gallops

- Saturday 16 March 2024

Mt Barker Cup

Pingrup Race Club pingrupraces.com.au

Facebook: @Pingrupraces

Pingrup racecourse is a four-hour drive, southeast of Perth. The Pingrup Race Club runs a meeting once a year in March and has been doing so since 1932. The Pingrup race meeting includes six races, a traditional outside bar, wine tasting, Fashions on the Field, entertainment, twoup and live music, as well as camping sites.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 23 March 2024

Pingrup Cup

Albany

The horses turn for home on the lush green track at Albany.

Wheatbelt

The Wheatbelt region surrounds the Perth metropolitan area in the South West of the State. The region has a diverse landscape, from the pristine white beaches and clear turquoise waters of Cervantes and Jurien Bay, to rolling hills and winding streams in the Avon Valley, to the rugged and magnificent terrain along the Wheatbelt Way. The Wheatbelt has five thoroughbred race clubs:

Moora Race Club mooraraceclub.com.au

Facebook: @mooraraceclub

Instagram: @mooraraceclub

X: @mooraraceclub

Moora Racecourse is a scenic two-hour drive north of Perth. The Moora Race Club holds one race meet every year in October which includes the Moora Cup. It is a family-oriented event with Fashions on the Field, live entertainment.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 7 October 2024

Moora Cup

Narrogin Racing narroginracing.com.au

Facebook: @narroginracing

Instagram: @narrogin_racing

Narrogin Racing is only a two-hour drive from Perth. It is one of the few tracks in WA to host both thoroughbred and harness racing, racing between September and July. The highlight of the racing calendar is the Narrogin Cup in April.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 14 April 2024

Narrogin Cup

Northam Race Club northamraceclub.com

Facebook: @northamraceclub

Instagram: @northamraceclub

X: @northamraceClub

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Avon Valley, Northam is just an hour’s drive from Perth. The racecourse itself is situated on the edge of the Mortlock River on the eastern border of the town and hosts on average of 21 race meetings.

Feature Race Days

- Sunday 29 October 2023

Northam Cup

- Sunday 5 May 2024

Northam Stakes

York | Horses race along the backstretch among a picturesque landscape.

Toodyay Racing Club

toodyayraceclub.com.au

Facebook: @toodyayraceclub

Instagram: @toodyayraceclub

Toodyay Racecourse is situated a one-hour drive from Perth, within the rolling hills in the beautiful Avon Valley. Founded in 1865, Toodyay Race Club holds an annual picnic race meeting in September, which is highlighted by the Toodyay Cup. The day draws locals and people from Perth who enjoy a day of thoroughbred racing, Fashions on the Field, activities for the children and live entertainment.

Feature Race Day

- Monday 25 September 2023

Toodyay Cup at Belmont Park

York Racing yorkrace.au

Facebook: York Racing Inc

Situated in the beautiful and historic town of York, an hour drive from Perth, the picturesque York racecourse is in a unique setting at the foot of Mount Bakewell and the high-quality attractions and services of York town combine to offer a memorable destination for visitors. The York Cup takes place in November each year.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 12 November 2023

York Cup

Goldfields-Esperance

The Goldfields-Esperance Region is located in the southeastern corner of WA and is home to the following thoroughbred racing clubs:

Esperance Bay Turf Club Ebtc.com.au

Facebook: @esperancebayturfclubinc | Instagram: @esperancebayturfclub

Esperance Racecourse is located 700km southeast of Perth in a coastal town, known for its stunning beaches. For this reason, it is described as the track “where the surf meets the turf”. Racing at Esperance runs in the summer months from November to March each season, highlighted by Ladies Day and Esperance Cup Day towards the end of the season.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 3 March 2024

Esperance Cup

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club Kbrc.com.au

Facebook: @KBRCKalgoorlie | Instagram: @kal_raceclub | X: @kalracing

Kalgoorlie Racecourse is located in the heart of the Goldfields, 600km east of Perth. Known as a mining town, the green turf track is surrounded by the red dirt of the outback. WA’s iconic winter racing venue, the Kalgoorlie’s racing season commences in April and culminates with the Kalgoorlie Cup in September as part of ‘The Round’, an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Goldfields. Whilst the race round, began as a racing carnival, it has grown into so much more, with events for everyone throughout the week and the whole community coming together to celebrate.

Feature Race Days

- Wednesday 4 October 2023

Hannans Handicap

- Saturday 7 October 2023

Kalgoorlie Cup

Laverton Racing Club

bit.ly/lavertonraceclub

Facebook: Laverton Race Club

Laverton Racecourse is located just under 1000km east of Perth. It is one of WA’s many country dirt tracks. The Laverton races are held annually in October.

Feature Race Day

- Sunday 29 October 2023

Laverton Cup

Leinster Race Club

facebook.com/LeinsterRaceClub

Leinster racecourse is located over 830km northeast of Perth. Leinster Race Club was formed in 1979 when a group of racing Enthusiasts decided that Leinster should have a Race club like Leonora, Laverton and Wiluna, to add to racing in the North Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 21 October 2023

Leinster Cup

Leonora Racing Club

facebook.com/leonoraracingclub

Leonora Racecourse is located over 800km northeast of Perth. Part of the Goldfields-Esperance region, the club holds a meeting in October, featuring the Leonora Cup and Fashions on The Field.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 14 October 2023

Leonora Cup

Mid West

The Mid West region covers nearly one fifth of WA’s land area, spanning around 478,000 square kilometres from Green Head to Kalbarri and more than 800km inland to Wiluna in the Gibson Desert. The region is home to six thoroughbred race clubs:

Dongara – Irwin Race Club facebook.com/DongaraIrwinRaceClub

Instagram: @dongarairwinraceclub

Dongara Racecourse is located 350km north of Perth, with it being a four-hour scenic drive along the Indian Ocean.

The iconic Dongara Irwin Race Club hosts an annual meeting each year on Easter Saturday and attracts holidaymakers each year. It is a fun-filled, family affair, with the day featuring the TABtouch Sprint and Iron Jack Dongara Cup. There are also off the track festivities which include Fashions on the Field and live entertainment.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 30 March 2024

Dongara Cup

Geraldton Turf Club geraldtonturfclub.com.au

Instagram: @geraldtonturfclub

Facebook: @geraldtonturfclubInc

X: @geraldtonturfCl

Geraldton Turf Club is one of the oldest established race clubs in Western Australia, commencing racing in 1861. The Geraldton Racecourse is a scenic 4 hour drive from Perth up the Indian Ocean coast. The circuit usually holds 19 meetings annually from October to April featuring the Geraldton Gold Cup and Batavia Sprint.

Feature Race Days

- Sunday 17 March 2024

Batavia Sprint

- Sunday 7 April 2024

Geraldton Cup

Geraldton | The crowd lines the fence to enjoy racing in the town of Geraldton

Mingenew Turf Club

facebook.com/mingenewraces

X: @MingenewRaces

Mingenew Racecourse is located a scenic 4 hour drive from Perth, driving through national parks and reserves. The Mingenew Turf Club has been operating for over 100 years and holds a race meeting annually in March. Highlighted by the Mingenew Cup, their race day also included Fashions on the Field, family entertainment, live music and fireworks.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 9 March 2024

Mingenew Cup

Mount Magnet Race Club

facebook.com/MagnetRaceClub

Mount Magnet Racecourse is located 560km northeast of Perth. Mount Magnet Race Club hosts one race meeting a year in September, which attracts locals and visitors from all over WA. The day features a six-race program as well as Fashions on the Field, tug o’ war, foot races, kids’ entertainment, live music and more.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 23 September 2023

Mount Magnet Cup

Gascoyne

Located 900km north of Perth, the Gascoyne region is a two-hour flight or can be visited via a road trip up north. The region hosts 12 race meetings per year, attracting 8,400 racegoers. There are three thoroughbred race clubs:

Carnarvon Race Club carnarvonraceclub.com

Facebook: @cvonraceclub | Instagram: @carnarvonraceclub

Carnarvon’s prominent racing season runs from May to September, culminating in the running of the Carnarvon Cup.

Carnarvon, located in the heart of the Gascoyne on the doorstep of the Indian Ocean, is a racing hub for several trainers and attracts racing participants from around the North-West, the Kimberley and the Mid-West.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 16 September 2023

Carnarvon Cup

Carnarvon | A visit to Carnarvon races is a treat for locals and visitors during the winter months.

Eastern Gascoyne Race Club landor.net.au

Facebook: @LandorRaces

Junction Race Club junctionraces.com

Facebook: @junctionraces

Instagram: @junctionraces

Landor Races, run by Eastern Gascoyne Race Club, is located 1000km north of Perth, in the East Gascoyne region, near Landor Station. Hosting a traditional bush race meeting each year, the Landor races have a colourful history with true outback flavour.

Landor Races prides itself on its focus on the local community. Only horses that are registered as being North-West bred, District Qualified or Class D horses are allowed to compete. Jockeys must be licensed track riders with local station employees preferred. The Landor Races are held annually in October.

Feature Race Days

- Saturday 30 September 2023

Ladies Bracelet

- Monday 2 October 2023

Landor Cup

Junction racetrack is located over 1000km north of Perth and is situated 10km west of Gascoyne Junction on Jimba Jimba station. Run by Junction Race Club, this track holds the annual Junction races, one of the oldest bush race meetings in WA, with the club being established in 1907. The Junction races is a full weekend of events held in August each year with racing, two-up, live music and a Gymkhana. The races on Saturday are highlighted by the Junction Cup and Fashions on the Field.

Feature Race Day

- August 2024

Junction Cup

Pilbara

The Pilbara is located in the north of the State and is one of the largest regions in WA, with 507,896 square kilometres of unique and breathtaking natural landscape. There is a total of four race clubs operating in the region:

Newman Race Club / East Pilbara Race Club facebook.com/eastpilbararaceclub

Instagram: @east_pilbara_race_club

Newman Racecourse is located over 1100km northeast of Perth. Part of the Pilbara region, the track is managed by the East Pilbara Race Club. It hosts one meeting each year, the Newman Cup, in August. This race meeting marks the end of the Pilbara race round which which commences with Port Hedland in May.

Feature Race Day

- August 2024

Newman Cup

Marble Bar Race Club facebook.com/MarbleBarRaceClub

Marble Bar Racecourse is located 1500km northeast of Perth. The Marble Bar Race weekend, including the Race Ball and the Races, is the highlight of the Pilbara social calendar, held annually since 1893. The picnic meeting fun continues with the highly anticipated“undie-run”, a race where punters strip down to their undies and are invited onto the track to race the 100-metre final stretch. Following the race meeting, there is entertainment which runs until about midnight.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 6 July 2024

Marble Bar Cup

Newman | Among the red dirt and live racing is a huge mining town.

Roebourne Race Club / Nor-West Jockey Club nwjc.com.au

Facebook: @nwjcroebourne

Roebourne Racecourse, is the second oldest race club in WA, and conducts four race meetings every year in June and July. The powdery Pindan track sits amongst a beautiful Pilbara backdrop showcasing nature at its finest. It is situated over 1500km from Perth and just one kilometre east of the Roebourne town centre. It has a full bar and catering facilities, TAB, bookmakers, live entertainment and traditional two up after the last race on every race day.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 27 July 2024

Roebourne Cup

Port Hedland Turf Club phtc.com.au

Facebook: @PortHedlandTurfClub

Instagram: @phturfclub

X: @PHTurfClub

Port Hedland racecourse is located over 1600km north of Perth. The Port Hedland Turf Club has a long and proud history which is central to the Town’s identity. Since its first race meet in 1902, the Turf Club has been entertaining Pilbara’s racegoers every year with unforgettable racing events which are the highlight of the North-West’s social calendar. The club holds five race meetings each season culminating in the Port Hedland Cup Day in August.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 11 August 2024

Port Hedland Cup

Kimberley

Australia’s North West is one of the world’s last true wilderness areas and home to the Kimberley – the inspiration for ‘Australia’ the movie. It is home to three thoroughbred race clubs:

Broome Turf Club broometurfclub.com.au

Facebook: @broometurfclub | Instagram: @broome_turf_club_ | X: @broometurfclub

Broome Racecourse is carved out of bushland at picturesque Gantheaume Point, just a stone’s throw from world-famous Cable Beach. Located over 2200km north of Perth, this idyllic location perched on the Broome peninsula is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and was named by punters.com.au in their “Top 10 Stunning Racetracks You Have to See”. Competitive thoroughbred horse racing and an great mix of entertainment ensures a fun and exciting day enjoyed by all.

Feature Race Days

- Tuesday 20 August 2024

Ladies Day

- Saturday 24 August 2024

Broome Cup

Broome | The stunning backdrop to Broome Turf Club on the famous Gantheaume Point.

Kununurra Race Club

kununurraraceclub.com.au

Facebook: @kununurraraceclub

Instagram: @kununurraraceclub

Kununurra Racecourse is located over 3000km north of Perth, sitting on the border of WA and the Northern Territory. The race club is nestled at the foot of the ancient Kimberley rock formation called Carlton Ridge/ Sleeping Buddha and is the only racecourse in WA north of Geraldton that is turfed. Kununurra Race Club holds around two meetings each year in August and September, including Kununurra Cup Day and Ladies Day.

Feature Race Days

- TBC Ladies Day

- TBC Kununurra Cup

Derby Racecourse / West Kimberley Turf Club bit.ly/westkimberleyturfclub

Facebook: West Kimberley Turf Club

Derby Racecourse is run by the West Kimberley Turf Club. Located over 2300km north of Perth, it hosts a picnic meeting which is highlighted by the Derby Cup in July each year. It is an exciting day of racing with oncourse betting facilities, two-up and entertainment late into the night.

Feature Race Day

- Saturday 20 July 2024

Derby Cup

AROUND THE TURN

The Quokka 2024

The second running of Western Australia’s richest ever race will be run at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday 20 April 2024. The Quokka made history in 2023 as the first ever thoroughbred slot race to be run in the state. Interstate raider Overpass held off the fast-finishing Amelia’s Jewel to give slot holder Ram Racing Syndicate the victory. Prizemoney for the 2024 edition has skyrocketed to a record $5 million. Check out the prizemoney breakdown below:

1st $2,000,000

2nd $600,000

3rd $400,000

4th $250,000

5th $190,000

6th $180,000

7th - 10th $175,000

11th - 14th $145,000

^ NSW trainer Bjorn Baker and jockey Joshua Parr celebrate the victory of Overpass in the inaugural running of The TABtouch Quokka.

^ Strapper Tara Harding with Overpass.

^ Overpass holds off the fast finishing Amelia’s Jewel.

the races wa

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN GROUP & LISTED RACES 2023/24

LISTED

RESTRICTED

MAGIC

$250,000

Pinjarra Park

(RL, 1200M) Plus $75,000 WA Racing Women’s

$250,000 MAGIC MILLIONS WA 3YO TROPHY (RL, 1200M) Plus $25,000 WA Racing Women’s Bonus

SHARE YOUR PASSION WITH MATES

Own The Dream is the ultimate racehorse ownership competition where you and your mates could win a share in a racehorse at the 2024 Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale.

The annual competition run by Racing WA Owners Only is your golden opportunity to learn more about ownership, as well as the chance to win one of the major prize packages towards your very own racehorse.

Why not share your passion for ownership with friends, family or work colleagues. Own The Dream consists of events and digital communications to equip teams with information to commence their ownership experience.

Keep an eye on our social media page for more information about the 2024 series.

Racing WA Owners Only will once again host a marquee at the 2024 Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale with a dedicated ownership team available to support new or exisiting owners with information relating to Westspeed or the sale.

The marquee will also include a board of available ownership opportunities in yearlings as they become known, which allows Own The Dream teams or owners on site with a chance to connect with a trainer or syndicator.

^ Own The Dream 2023 Winning Team, Stable Mannas

MEET THE OWNERSHIP TEAM

How did you get involved in racing?

Nick

After moving from Perth to Melbourne, I immediately got swept up in the race day culture and the hype around the Spring Racing Carnival. I was offered an opportunity to manage the Membership at Caulfield and spent seven great years working in an industry I’ve always been passionate about. Working with Racing WA now affords me the opportunity to work with like-minded racing enthusiasts for the betterment of the WA Racing Industry and create memorable experiences for racing enthusiasts all around WA.

Sian

My love of racing was born in the Goldfields, where my family owned and trained pacers and gallopers for decades. As a kid I spent every possible minute at the stables in Kalgoorlie, where my Dad instructions were to ‘’start at the bottom’’... handing me the pitchfork and bucket. After high school my first job was as Administration Assistant at the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club, where ‘The Round’ is the highlight of everyone’s year…what a baptism of fire into the racing and events industry, that is! I absolutely love country racing and the sense of community that is the entire racing industry.

I’ve since worked at Gloucester Park, where being part of the 2012 Inter Dominion Championship (Australasia’s biggest harness racing series) was an absolute career highlight and I’ve managed the Pinjarra Harness Racing Club. Although my family is entrenched in harness racing and standardbreds are my passion, my absolute love of horses and racing crosses both codes.

Brennan

I was bitten by the racing bug at a very early age admiring my Aunty Paula Wagg which resulted in a passion for thoroughbred racing.

“

Much to the delight of my schoolteachers, I graduated, and they never had to see another Jim Hollands framed photo or race book in the classroom.

For me, racing has always been about family. Win or lose, it brought us together and given us a lifetime of memories to enjoy.

^ Nick Ristovic Assistant Racing Marketing Manager

^ Sian Hughes Marketing Coordinator

^ Brennan Fyans Racing Marketing Manager

What is your best racing moment?

Nick

As an Owner, I had a horse trained by Matt Cumani come third in a Saturday race at Caulfield where I was working at the time. The feeling of elation from myself and the fellow owners, just for coming third, was a special memory. Anyone would have thought we had won the Melbourne Cup! Since being in Perth, it’s most definitely been the atmosphere at Ascot following the inaugural running of the Quokka. The noise, the excitement, the buzz has been unrivalled at Ascot in my time in WA.

Sian

Horses have a magical way of lifting you up, even when you’re experiencing the hardest moments in life. I’ve been lucky enough to celebrate a few memorable wins over the years – be they maidens winning at their 50th start, or a Group race on Inter Dominion night, but my best moment on-track actually happened earlier this year. Tragically, we lost our son, Brodie, in February at just two weeks old due to a very rare metabolic condition. The day after Brodie passed away, our trotter, Patched, won the Trotters Cup at Gloucester Park.

“

It was an incredibly hard day and we almost didn’t make it to the trots, but horses bring our family together and the elation of such a special moment ‘with angel wings on each hoof’ will be one treasured forever.

Brennan

I’ve enjoyed a few but one that feels surreal was bringing Spirited One back to aunt’s stable after winning the Jungle Dawn Classic, a race directly after Takeover Target’s Winterbottom Stakes victory, who happened to be stabled with us at the time. “You’ve upstaged us,” said Joe Janiak who was enjoying a beer with the champ at the stables. For many this was a day they will never forget, and for my family, a truly memorable afternoon we’ll forever treasure. Strapping a horse in the 2013 Kentucky Derby and representing Australia at the JRA General Study Program in Japan are other highlights.

Favourite Ownership Event So Far

Nick

My favourite ownership event so far would have to have been our inaugural Northerly Stakes Owners Event in 2023. We spoke on stage with Neville Duncan, the breeder and owner of the great horse and Fred Kersley, the trainer of the Northerly and the crowd in attendance were captivated by the stories told on the day. With 250 owners in attendance on a Group One race day at Ascot to pay tribute to the horse which won an incredible nine group ones - was a memory I’ll never forget.

Sian

The inaugural Harness the Dream Finale at Gloucester Park in 2022 was a spectacular night!

Hearing from local owner of Lee Bunney, part-owner of Magnificent Storm, had the crowd enthralled by the pure love for her horse. Taking our Harness The Dream participants behind the scenes at stable tours with Gary Hall Snr and Jnr was also loads of fun – it’s the people of the racing industry who captivate you and make you want to be a part of it.

Brennan

One that gives me a laugh was an Owners Only Ladies event in the Swan Valley where two Clydesdales carted 40 owners through the vines to the Ugly Duckling Winery as part of a Magic Millions Racing Women’s promotion. The staff controlling the Clydesdales would later say if their horses could talk, they’d have many funny stories to share. The 2019 Own The Dream Grand Finale was another favourite when a team of 10 first-time owners were drawn the winners of the competition. The celebrations were huge!

Tips for a First-Time Owner

Nick

Keep an eye out for all ownership communications from both the trainers and Racing WA. These emails in particular provide all the information you need to make the most of your ownership experience.

“

Be sure also to immerse yourself in as many ownership events as you can to meet fellow owners and develop some great social networks along the way.

Sian

Be realistic with your expectations and you’ll be sure to enjoy the ride! Trust your trainer and have patience. Immerse yourself in the racing community, including of course the social side of ownership, by attending ownership events and supporting local racing Clubs. There is so much to be learned and many extraordinary characters who make racing such a unique and fun experience.

Brennan

Pick your trainer before your horse and have patience. It is important you choose the right trainer as they will provide you with the entire ownership experience. Even an early running two-year-old will not trial or race until eight months after the February Sale. Don’t expect to know everything on day one as different horses and trainers will teach you different things. As such I always recommend first-time owners to spread their budget in smaller shares across multiple horses. A final tip is to get involved in the industry more broadly, by becoming a member at your local club or attending one of the many events on offer. You will meet fellow owners and become more involved in the community which helps with the patience you will need with your horse. Winning a race is just a bonus.

LIFE AFTER RACING – OFF THE TRACK WA

Racing WA’s Off the Track WA (OTTWA) program plays an integral part in promoting thoroughbreds and standardbreds in their second careers as pleasure and performance horses.

OTTWA’s activities increase the demand for, and supports the placement of retired racehorses in second careers through a number of initiatives including:

· Hosting metropolitan and regional off the track horse only clinics and events

Sponsoring Off the Track classes and prizes and regional and metropolitan events

· The OTTWA Retraining Program which encompasses the OTTWA Estate and a network of OTTWA Official Retrainers. The Retraining Program endeavours to complement already established pathways for rehoming retired racehorses, and works to provide them with the necessary skills and experiences needed to transition from racing to their second career as a pleasure or performance horses.

· Promotion of re-trainers and rehoming services

· Hosting a free “Find Your Horse” and “Sell Your Horse” service

· Providing education materials to guide and support those with off the track horses

^ Tims Portrait, Standardbred | Vicki Photos Photography

OTTWA Retraining Program Graduates

Four Needed NZ: Rehomed through the Off the Track WA Retraining and Rehoming Program, 2008 standardbred gelding, Four Needed NZ, is just one of many horses who has benefited from OTTWA initiatives. Following his retirement in 2019 and retraining by OTTWA Official Retrainers, Madison Gielen and Bayley Thomas, Four Needed NZ was rehomed in 2021 and has since attended several OTTWA Educational Clinics and sponsored events, including being awarded Best Performed Off the Track horse at Walliston Riding and Pony Clubs Show Jumping event, proudly sponsored by OTTWA.

Carson Drive: Horses such as OTTWA Retraining Program graduate, Carson Drive (trained by Peter Daly for 20 starts before retiring in 2020) have competed at several OTTWA Sponsored events in 2023 to claim off the track branded prizing and cash prizes. Carson Drive has been retrained after racing to become a competitive eventer, encompassing the three Olympic phases of equestrian events such as dressage, show jumping and cross country. Carson Drive and owner/rider, Samantha Cook were the fifth placegetters at South West Horse Trials and third placegetter at Brigadoon 1 CCN in the Off the Track 80cm classes, utilizing the Dalakhani sired geldings’ athleticism to excel in all disciplines.

To read more about what Off the Track horses around WA are achieving, visit the offthetrackwa.com.au and follow OTTWA on Instagram and Facebook.

“

OTTWA is highly regarded and valued in the equestrian world and events. I love seeing thoroughbreds out in their Off the Track WA merch and promoting this wonderful breed and what they can achieve after racing. They are just as competitive as any purpose bred sport horses. It is fantastic to have this support for all off the track owners.

- OTTWA Competitor

“

I would like to thank OTTWA for their generous sponsorship of OTT classes. It is a wonderful community which I really enjoy being a member of. Off the Track Horses are amazing and I am very proud and grateful to own one.

- OTTWA Competitor

Key Highlights

3,500 retired racehorses registered

160 sponsored events in 2023

20 Educational Clinics per year with 430 entrants

100 retired racehorses rehomed

220 retired racehorses enter into OTTWA Sponsored Events each month

^ Left Inner Viking, Greyhound, middle Topman, Greyhound, right GoandCullect, Standardbred | Vicki Photos Photography

^ Beat the Devil, Horse | Eric Lloyd Photography

^ Lascia Star, Horse | Vicki Photos Photography

Western Australian Racehorse Owners’ Association Membership

WAROA is the independent and eligible body representing thoroughbred owners in Western Australia. We provide a direct voice for owners to Government, Racing WA, race clubs and other relevant industry associations.

BECOME A MEMBER

Help us be the voice and ensure the rights of racehorse owners.

aFree entry into WA Racetracks (excl. Ascot/Pinjarra feature days)

aAdvocacy, advice, and consultation services

a$25 TABtouch voucher

Special Offer

aDiscounts

aBonus $500 member prizes

aNewsletter

aEvents

Receive an Ascot Members Area Privilege Ticket (value $50) with coupon code 2324WAROA

waroa.com.au