Flemington to Play On, for Neale this Community Race Day

The VRC, in collaboration with Racing Victoria, is proud to support FightMND and its ongoing fight against motor neurone disease. A highlight of the day will be the running of Race 3 on the card, Play On, For Neale, a special tribute to AFL great and FightMND co-founder Neale Daniher, whose courage and advocacy have inspired Australians nationwide.

The race honours Daniher’s tireless efforts to raise awareness and funding for motor neurone disease research, while encouraging the community to rally behind the cause and “play on” in the face of adversity. In a show of support, strappers will don FightMND beanies pre-race.

The Club will also pay tribute to late Flemington trainer Steve Richards in Race 6 with the Vale Steve Richards.

VRC Chief Executive Kylie Rogers said the club was looking forward to the first winter race day of 2026.

“Community Race Day is a fantastic way to kick off our winter racing calendar. With free entry to all, we look forward to bringing people together at Flemington to enjoy a great day,” Ms Rogers said.

“We’re especially proud to highlight FightMND this year and to honour Neale Daniher through the ‘Play On, For Neale’ race. It’s a meaningful way for the VRC community to come together, raise awareness and support the fight against motor neurone disease.”

On the track, heats of the Winter Racing Series continue with horses looking to qualify for Flemington Finals Race Day on Saturday 4 July.

Living Legends Apache Cat and Tom Melbourne will be on-course for the day, with racegoers able to visit the legends in the horse stalls and watch them parade in the Mounting Yard after races 2 and 4.

Gates open at 10:55am with Race 1 at 11:55am. For more race day information or to redeem free entry, visit vrc.net.au.

Racing returns to Flemington on Saturday 20 June for VRC Country Race Day.