160 Years of the Epsom Handicap
Celebrate the legacy of Sydney’s premier Spring mile race
The Evolution of the Epsom Handicap
Since its inaugural running in 1865, the Epsom Handicap has grown from a modest mile race into the centrepiece of the Sydney Everest Carnival.
This timeline celebrates the race’s most defining moments, from record-breaking performances to unforgettable finishes, and honours the champions who shaped its legacy.
1865
Dundee wins the first Epsom Handicap at Randwick
1891
Marvel carries a record 64.5kg to victory
1925
80,000 patrons witness a dramatic dead heat
1946
Shannon left at the post, nearly wins
1971
Gunsynd, the 'Goondiwindi Grey', captures hearts
1990-91
Super Impose achieves the Epsom–Doncaster double
2015
Winx claims her first Sydney Group 1
2022
Top Ranked and Ellsberg finish in a rare dead heat
2024
Ceolwulf storms home as the race favourite
Iconic Moments That Shaped the Epsom Handicap
Across 160 years, the Epsom Handicap has delivered drama, triumph and unforgettable performances.
These are the stories that live on in racing folklore, where legends were born and history was made.
Super Impose’s Historic Double
In 1990 and 1991, Super Impose etched his name into history with back-to-back wins in both the Epsom and Doncaster – a feat never repeated.
Marvel’s Record-Breaking Weight
A true test of grit and greatness in the early days of Australian racing, Marvel’s 1891 victory carrying 64.5kg remains unmatched.
Winx’s First Sydney Group 1
Before she became a global icon, Winx claimed her first Sydney Group 1 in the 2015 Epsom – a glimpse of the greatness to come.
The 2022 Dead Heat
In a moment of pure racing drama, Top Ranked and Ellsberg couldn’t be separated at the finish, delivering only the third dead heat in Epsom history.
Beauford vs Gloaming: A Rivalry for the Ages
Beauford’s 1921 win set the stage for a legendary rivalry with New Zealand’s Gloaming. Their four-race duel captivated the racing world.
Gunsynd: The People’s Champion
The ‘Goondiwindi Grey’ won the 1971 Epsom with flair and heart, pausing for applause and winning over the crowd like no other.
The Elite Few: Dual Epsom Winners
Across 160 years of racing, only a handful of champions have conquered the Epsom Handicap twice.
These horses etched their names into history with performances that defined eras and thrilled generations.
From early colonial heroes to modern-day legends, this gallery celebrates the rare and remarkable.
Masquerade
1882 & 1883
Melodrama
1907 & 1908
Amounis
1926 & 1928
Chatham
1932 & 1933
Toi Port
1963 & 1964
Super Impose
1990 & 1991
Desert War
2004 & 2005
Masters of the Mile
The Minds and Muscles Behind the Epsom
Behind every great Epsom Handicap winner stands a masterful jockey and a visionary trainer.
This hall of fame honours the legends who’ve dominated the Randwick mile – from record-holders to rising stars and even a child prodigy.
Jockey Legends
Neville Sellwood
The modern record-holder with four Epsom victories: Titanic (1947), Silver Phantom (1953), Knave (NZ) (1956) and Noholme (1959).
A tactician in the saddle, Sellwood’s legacy lives on in Australian racing history.
Glen Boss
Known for his flair and precision, Boss matched Sellwood’s record with wins aboard Shogun Lodge (2000), Racing to Win (2006), Captain Sonador (2010) and Kolding (NZ) (2019).
Donald Nicholson
A feat unlikely to be repeated – five consecutive Epsom wins from 1880 to 1884, including rides on dual winner Masquerade. A pioneer of consistency and class.
Jim McHugh
A remarkable story of youthful courage and skill, in 1897, 11-year-old Jim McHugh rode Robin Hood to victory, becoming the youngest jockey to ever win the Epsom.
Maurice McCarten
A dual threat, McCarten won the Epsom twice as a jockey (1931, 1937) and four times as a trainer, including with Noholme, the full brother to champion Todman.
Trainer Titans
Gai Waterhouse & T.J. Smith
A dynasty of excellence. Gai Waterhouse and her Hall of Fame father T.J. Smith share seven Epsom Handicap wins, setting the benchmark for training brilliance.
Chris Waller
A modern master of the Randwick mile, Waller has claimed five Epsom victories to date, including with Kolding (NZ) in 2019.
Be There For History
Join Us for the 160th Running Of The Epsom Handicap
Celebrate 160 years of racing greatness at Royal Randwick on Saturday 4 October 2025.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter, a fashion-forward racegoer or a first-time visitor, this is your chance to experience the thrill, style and spirit of Sydney’s most iconic Spring mile race.
Ticketing & Hospitality
General Admission
Enjoy trackside access, live entertainment and a vibrant raceday atmosphere.
Members Reserve
Unlock exclusive benefits and access to premium viewing areas, bars and lounges.
Hospitality Packages
From fine dining to private suites, elevate your raceday with curated hospitality.