December 4, 2017
Royal Randwick will again come alive for The Star Chinese Festival of Racing on Saturday 17 February 2018 which will see Sydney’s Chinese community celebrate the Chinese New Year holiday trackside.
The event was launched today by ATC co-Acting CEO Matt Galanos and The Star’s Managing Director, Greg Hawkins.
The afternoon was also attended by key racing industry participants including leading jockey Tim Clark and Brenton Avdulla and Trainer Paul Snowden.
The Star Chinese Festival of Racing will be held on the second day of the Lunar New Year and will combine the global tradition of thoroughbred horseracing with a backdrop of rich Chinese culture.
Lion dancers, an eye dotting ceremony, traditional food stalls and a God of Wealth sending Red Envelopes will be some of the attractions offered on the day.
The day will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to relish a cultural experience like none other with a backdrop of quality racing including The Star Apollo Stakes which in 2017 was won by Sydney’s super mare, Winx.
The ATC will conduct its annual Introduction to Ownership Forum on The Star Chinese Festival of Racing race day with a focus on educating new and existing owners about horse ownership and to encourage increased participation
Participants at the forum will hear from leading trainers, owners, bloodstock agents and industry participants about the process of selecting horses and how to gain maximum benefit from the ownership experience.
Australian Turf Club co-Acting CEO James Heddo (EGM Racing Services and Membership) said the race day aimed to strengthen the relationship with the Chinese community in Sydney and attract a new audience to ATC venues.
“We are focused on developing this race day into a feature event with an international and cultural focus that provides an attractive pathway to those that may not have had the chance to be part of the live audience.
“The Star Chinese Festival of Racing race day is now in its second year and it continues to deliver a high quality racing and entertainment experience which is critical to grow the participation in the racing industry.
“Horse racing is a thrilling sporting, lifestyle and social event and we need to partner with local communities to continue to encourage new customers to the racetrack and enjoy the sport”, said Mr Heddo.
Greg Hawkins, Managing Director, The Star said, “Now in its second year, this innovative event will combine one of Australia’s favourite pastimes, with a backdrop of rich Chinese culture. Together, we are set to deliver a program of racing and off-track entertainment and hospitality experiences that will attract and thrill a broad range of customers including locally-based and international Chinese visitors.”
Greg Hawkins, Managing Director, The Star said, “The Star is delighted to continue our valuable partnership with the Australian Turf Club as the Official Naming Rights Partner of The Star Chinese Festival of Racing for 2018.
“The Star’s partnership with the ATC is an extension of our dedication to celebrating Sydney’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. The event coincides with the Lunar New Year period when The Star will be in full celebration mode and hosting a number of spectacular events and dining experiences across the property.
“The Star will be inviting all race goers to visit The Star throughout the Lunar New Year period to celebrate this important cultural time,” continued Mr Hakwins.
CONTACT: Tracey White 0407 785 994 twhite@theATC.com.au #theRaces