One of the highlights on the racing program is the Listed Bagot Handicap (2800m), which was first run in 1884 and named in honour of Robert Cooper Bagot, the inaugural secretary of the VRC.
The race will feature last-start Lexus Melbourne Cup runner Interpretation for trainer Ciaron Maher. This year's edition marks the first time a Lexus Melbourne Cup runner has run in the Bagot Handicap in the same season since Unusual Suspect in 2013.
The other feature for the day, the Listed Kensington Stakes (1400m) will see Inglis Bracelet winner Running By back at Flemington, with visiting English jockey Saffron Osborne having her first ride at Headquarters aboard the mare.
Off the track there will be plenty of entertainment to bring in the New Year including Flemington’s first ever pool party. Racegoers can soak up the Summer Social oasis on the front lawn with refreshing cocktails, inflatable pools and live music throughout the day.
There is plenty on offer for all ages on the Flemington Family Lawn with face painting, water play, lawn games and a silent disco for Phar Lap Club members.
Punters can enjoy the surrounds of the TAB Saintly Place Sports Bar with all of the racing action on the big screens right in front of the Winning Post. And for those wanting to start the New Year on a winning note can join the VRC Punters Club for just $10.
VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers encouraged racing fans to make the most of all that is on offer at Flemington.
“New Year’s Race Day is a perfect way to start 2025 and continue the holiday celebrations with great value summer fun and for the first time, poolside racing action,” Ms Rogers said.
“New Year’s Day is the first of three January race days at Flemington which has a focus on quality racing in a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. Exclusively for members, the new Summer Soiree has been well received, with a sold-out crowd expected in the Committee Room.”
Lexus Melbourne Cup winner Twilight Payment will be on-course with fellow Living Legend Santa Ana Lane. The legends will parade in the Mounting Yard after races 2 and 4 with racegoers able to visit them in the race day stalls throughout the day.
Gates open at 12:00pm ahead of the eight-race program starting at 1:10pm. General Admission tickets are $10 per person with children under 12 admitted free to Flemington. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vrc.com.au.
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Race
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Time
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Name
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1
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1:10pm
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TAB We’re On (1700m)
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2
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1:45pm
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Henry Byron Moore Handicap (1600m)
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3
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2:20pm
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Victorian Jockeys Assocation Sprint (1000m)
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4
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3:00pm
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Listed Kensington Stakes (1400m)
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5
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3:40pm
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Australian Trainers’ Association Plate (1400m)
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6
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4:20pm
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Listed Bagot Handicap (2800m)
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7
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5:00pm
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George Watson Handicap (1800m)
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8
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5:40pm
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New Year's Day Sprint (1200m)
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Summer racing at Flemington continues in January 2025 including VRC Standish Handicap Race Day on Saturday 11 January and VRC Summer Fun Race Day on Saturday 18 January.
