June 18, 2020

Patrons can attend and enjoy live racing at Royal Randwick this Saturday as the Australian Turf Club welcomes all spectators back to the track in dining areas.

Following the successful return of owners and Australian Turf Club Members since the start of June, all patrons can return to live racing action under the current NSW Government Public Health Order.

A range of dining options within Royal Randwick’s renowned Grandview Restaurant, which offers ceiling to floor glass window views trackside are available for purchase.

Royal Randwick also offers several other options for Members and patrons in the Queen Elizabeth II Grandstand across various levels.

All patrons must pre-register and purchase a hospitality package at TheRaces.com.au by 5.00pm, Thursday 18 June. Bookings of up to six people are permitted.

Under the NSW Government Public Health Order patrons are asked to be seated and follow social distancing protocols as directed by Australian Turf Club staff.

Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Jamie Barkley said Sydney racing had continued to lead the way in the safe return of racegoers to the track.

“We are delighted that Sydney and our customers can be the first in the country to return to the track,” Mr Barkley said.

“The Australian Turf Club not only continues to fully abide by NSW Government Public Health Orders but has implemented extra measures such as state-of-the-art thermal imaging cameras for the health and safety of all patrons and racing participants.”

The $100,000 Bentley Winter Dash is the feature on Saturday’s nine-race card, headed in TAB markets by the John O’Shea trained Southern Lad ($2.80) for premiership-leading jockey James McDonald.

Southern Lad comes off a strong last start second to TAB Everest contender Classique Legend in the Listed Bob Charley AO Stakes at Royal Randwick.

Viridine for trainer James Cummings and jockey Hugh Bowman is at $4.20 TAB Fixed Odds, ahead of the next in betting Invictus Prince ($6 TAB) for Warwick Farm trainer Matthew Smith and jockey Glen Boss.

The Royal Randwick track was rated a Heavy 9 on Thursday morning and was continuing to improve ahead of Saturday’s meeting.

A full video report and forecast with Royal Randwick Racecourse Manager Michael Wood is available here:

For all racing and general information including links to purchase hospitality packages for Saturday race fixtures go to TheRaces.com.au