October 8, 2015
The Australian Turf Club has received a big jump in first acceptances for the world’s richest race for two year olds, the $3.5 million Longines Golden Slipper, to be run at Rosehill Gardens on 19 March, 2016.
A total of 1461 horses remain in the running for the race that continues to shape the Australian racing and breeding industry.
The number of first acceptances is a 17 per cent rise on last year’s number of 1248.
The world’s biggest racing operation Godolphin – with 156 youngsters still nominated – heads the list, followed by the trainer who jointly holds the training record for the race, Gai Waterhouse, with 112 first acceptances.
Waterhouse trained her sixth Golden Slipper Stakes winner this year with Vancouver, equalling the record set by her legendary father TJ Smith, and which saw the Medaglia D’Oro colt sold for a reported $40 million.
Among other trainers with large first acceptances are Peter and Paul Snowden (76), Chris Waller (72), Hawkes Racing (67), David Hayes and Tom Dabernig (64) and Mick Price (50).
Other top Sydney trainers with first acceptances are Bjorn Baker (36) and Gerald Ryan (31).
Snitzel heads the list as the sire with the most first acceptances at 83, followed by Fastnet Rock (77), Sebring (61) and first season sire Smart Missile (59).
Other notable first season sires with larger first acceptances are Foxwedge (49) and former Golden Slipper winner Sepoy (42).
Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Darren Pearce said the increase in nominations for the Longines Golden Slipper was a pleasing result.
“We have put the Longines Golden Slipper Carnival back on a pedestal as a three week event at Rosehill Gardens, and the strength of these first acceptances backs that,’’ Mr Pearce said.
“The Longines Golden Slipper is not only the one race that shapes the industry, but is also one that owners dream of winning.
“We are already planning and looking forward to one of our biggest carnivals yet, especially with our new sponsor Longines on board for the first time this year.’’
The full list of first acceptances for the Longines Golden Slipper can be viewed at www.australianturfclub.com.au/goldenslippernoms with second acceptances due on Monday 25 January, 2016.
Photo: Bradley Photos