The VRC has added a new race to its Melbourne Cup day program.
The club announced on Monday that a $250,000 Australian Heritage Cup (2800m) would be run on the day, replacing the traditional 2800m Benchmark 96 race on the same program.
It’s a race that is restricted to Australian and New Zealand trained stayers.
There will be qualifying races held in each state across the country, allowing connections the chance to have a runner on Melbourne Cup day.
The concept is supported by West Australian businessman and Executive Chair of the Australian Heritage Group, Tony Barton.
“Horse racing is a huge part of the Australian psyche and story, and the Australian Heritage Cup is a race designed to celebrate that legacy and support Australian and New Zealand stayers into the future,” Barton said.
“I am proud to support the inaugural running of the race and looking forward to seeing what type of field assembles on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day.”
VRC Executive General Manager Racing Leigh Jordon said: “To have a runner on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day is a huge honour and the Australian Heritage Cup will give Australian and New Zealand based trainers the opportunity to be at Flemington on the biggest day of the year.
“The race has always been a platform for young, progressive stayers to test their credentials at Flemington with previous winners including The Map and White Marlin and we expect another strong field this year.”
