July 9, 2016
The world’s richest race for two year olds – the $3.5 million Longines Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens – continues to grow in stature with another surge in nominations for the race in 2017.
A total of 2091 first nominations were received before the Australian Turf Club closed entries for the 61st running of the race – the centrepiece of the Longines Golden Slipper Carnival in March.
These first nominations are another significant jump from last year’s total of 2007 horses.
There were 1132 colts and geldings and 959 fillies entered for next year’s race, to be held at Rosehill Gardens on 19 March, 2017.
Leading stables from around Australia with the highest number of nominations include Godolphin, with 165 horses, followed by Mick Price (105), Gai Waterhouse (104), David Hayes and Tom Dabernig (84), Chris Waller (83), Peter and Paul Snowden (69) and Aquanita Racing (57).
Two of Sydney’s strongest stables for two year olds, Gerald Ryan (49) and Hawkes Racing (45), are among the entries, along with Melbourne’s Premier trainer Darren Weir who has entered 42 horses, double his number from last year.
Leading sires with the most number of entries include Snitzel (108), Sebring (85), Fastnet Rock (84), Pierro (82), All Too Hard (75) and Smart Missile (70).
Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Darren Pearce said the increase in nominations further highlighted the significance of the race for the thoroughbred industry.
”The Longines Golden Slipper is the race every owner, trainer, jockey and breeder dreams of winning from the moment a young thoroughbred takes its first steps,’’ Mr Pearce said.
“The Longines Golden Slipper is the race that shapes and defines the Australian racing industry like no other.
“It is also very pleasing to see not only all of Sydney’s biggest trainers and stables amongst the nominations but many in large numbers from interstate.
“The Australian Turf Club again looks forward to hosting Sydney’s signature race at our world class racing and spectator facilities at Rosehill Gardens.’’
Rosehill Gardens is in the final stages of a $28 million refurbishment, which is due to be completed for this year’s Spring Carnival.