One of Australian racing’s most iconic days live and free this Saturday
The crown jewel in Sydney’s Autumn Racing Carnival will sparkle on the Seven Network this Saturday, when some of Australia’s most prestigious races take centre stage in The Star Championships Day 1 at Randwick, while fans will also enjoy an action-packed day of racing at Caulfield.
The Championships is the highlight of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival and Day 1 features a whopping four Group 1 events headlined by the $3 million Doncaster Mile and $2 million Australian Derby.
On a day steeped in tradition, Seven will have all the big moments at Randwick covered from 12.00pm AEST Saturday on Channel 7, 7two and 7plus, while the headline act at Caulfield will be the Listed Galilee Series Final.
Australia’s pre-eminent sports broadcaster Bruce McAvaney will again lead racing’s undisputed #1 commentary team on Saturday.
He will be joined by Katelyn Mallyon, Michelle Payne, Jason Richardson and Sky Racing’s Lizzie Jelfs. Kate Waterhouse will bring fans all the colour, fashion and celebrity interviews from Randwick.
This year’s Doncaster Mile shapes as a classic contest with the field boasting a remarkable 11 individual Group 1 winners.
All Star Mile winner Mugatoo is aiming to join this elite group on Saturday with his maiden Group 1 victory in the 1600m feature, but he will have to overcome a host of in-form rivals led by George Ryder Stakes winner Think it Over, Rosehill Guineas victor Mo’unga, Yao Dash – chasing a record eighth Doncaster win for co-trainer Gai Waterhouse – and imposing Godolphin trio Avilius, Cascadian and Best of Days.
The Australian Derby (2400m) is the nation’s biggest event for three-year-olds and, in this year’s 160th running, VRC Oaks winner Montefilia is bidding to become the first filly to taste victory in 39 years.
Yaletown, however, is aiming to become the fifth horse in as many years to complete the Tulloch Stakes-Australian Derby double, while New Zealand Derby winner Rocket Spade, Sky Lab and Lion’s Roar are also among the leading contenders.
