January 8, 2019
The Australian Turf Club has set a deadline of 31 January 2019 for patrons to become a new Member of the Club before introducing a waiting list from 1 February 2019.
Existing Australian Turf Club Members will still be able to renew a Membership in 2019 ahead of some of Sydney’s biggest racing and social events including the Longines Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Sydney Cup and the Doncaster at Royal Randwick.
ATC Membership numbers are at a five-year high and race days such as the Longines Golden Slipper Carnival and TAB Everest have seen record modern day Sydney crowds, including in ATC Member Reserve.
The waitlist for new ATC Member applications will enhance the prestige and value of annual ATC Membership as well as make some major race day experiences more comfortable.
The changes are part of a full review by ATC of all Member facilities which will include, but not limited to, premium seating, Member amenities, and speciality food and beverage options at all venues.
Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Jamie Barkley said Sydney racing was amongst the biggest growing sporting and entertainment events in Australia.
“Sydney racing is the hottest ticket in town and locking in a Membership with the ATC provides a premium experience in world-class facilities,’’ Mr Barkley said.
“Membership will guarantee your spot at race days such as Longines Golden Slipper Day, Autumn’s biggest day of Group One racing in Australia, as well as the world’s richest race on turf the TAB Everest and a new event in Spring, the $7.5 million Golden Eagle at Rosehill Gardens.
“After 31 January 2019 anyone wishing to become a new Member will be placed on a waiting list and may miss their chance for the best seats in the house.
“We will continue to review waiting lists before accepting new Members to ensure existing Members have a comfortable raceday spectator experience.’’
Mr Barkley said a review and improvement of race day facilities was continuing, including the recent upgrade and replacement of 500 televisions across ATC racecourses.
The ATC’s “Member Get Member” promotion, which offers 50 ATC Dollars loaded on to the proposing Member’s card to spend on course for each new Member, will continue until 31 January 2019.