GROUP 1 racing will return to Warwick Farm for the first time in three years when the $300,000 Patinack Chipping Norton Stakes (1600m) is held on Saturday March 6.
Some of the best horses from around the country are expected to fight out the weight-for-age classic including Theseo, Vision and Power, Roman Emperor, Danleigh, Rangirangdoo, Alcopop and possibly Speed Gifted.
Gai Waterhouse’s super filly More Joyous may also compete in the $150,000 Group 2 Surround Stakes (1400m) on the same day.More than $1 million in prize money will be up for grabs on the eight-race program which also includes the Group 3 Liverpool City Handicap, Group 3 Kindergarten Stakes and Listed Wiggle Quality Handicap.
The return of the Patinack Chipping Norton Stakes to Warwick Farm was part of the Australlian Jockey Club’s $25 million Grand Plan for the classic country-styled course announced in August.
“It is great to have the famous race return to its home and we hope race goers from around Sydney embrace the event again and flock to Warwick Farm for a fantastic day at the races,” said AJC Acting Chief Executive Darren Pearce.
“Warwick Farm is a great venue for the whole family and it will only get better as our Grand Plan of redevelopment continues.
“We expect extremely strong fields and have planned a large program of entertainment that is a huge attraction to families and racing supporters alike.
“The AJC is determined to provide great racing to all of Sydney and this move is aimed at revitalising racing in Sydney’s heavily populated and prospering south west.”
There will be fun for the whole family with kids allowed in for free and lots of rides and entertainment including pony rides, a cuddly animal farm, bungee trampolines and the Adrenaline Maze.
There will be a circus and children can join in the circus skills workshops and meet and greet the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
A fashions on the field event will be held with prizes for Best Dressed Male, Best Dressed Female, Best Dressed Boy under 13 and Best Dressed Girl under 13.
Gates open at 10.30am and the first is race at 12.55pm.
Adult general admission costs $15 with children under 18 allowed in for free.
Nominations for the Chipping Norton close on Monday March 1.
AUSTRALIAN JOCKEY CLUB MEDIA RELEASE
CONTACT: Rod Allen 0419 692 856
