Black Caviar will compete against eight of the nation’s fastest horses in the $752,500 Coolmore Lightning Stakes at 4.10pm tomorrow (Saturday) at Flemington.
A win would equal the Australasian record of 19 straight metropolitan wins held jointly by Gloaming and Desert Gold.
A strong crowd, including Black Caviar’s official cheer squad and many owners, is expected to turn Flemington into a sea of salmon and black.
The Coolmore Lightning Stakes is the opening leg of the Global Sprint Challenge, which could see Black Caviar claim a $US1 million bonus if she can win legs in three countries. Connections of the world’s highest rated sprinter have nominated legs in Dubai and England as likely targets for 2012.
Such is the popularity of Black Caviar, the VRC has gone back to the drawing board since it was confirmed the wonder mare would contest in Saturday’s Coolmore Lightning Stakes.
Staffing levels, free children’s activities, ticketing outlets, racebook quantities, train frequencies, temporary tote, bar and catering facilities and outdoor furniture are just some of the elements that have been bolstered to cater for Black Caviar fans.
All eyes will be on Black Caviar’s half-brother All Too Hard – debuting in the Listed Talindert Stakes for two-year-olds at 12.50pm – to see if he is anywhere near as genetically gifted as his big sister.
In other racing highlights, Crown Oaks winner Mosheen (The Vanity, 2.50pm) and Caulfield Guineas winner Helmet (CS Hayes Stakes, 3.30pm) will both step out en route to a tantalising clash in Flemington’s Group 1 Australian Guineas on March 3.
All media without annual RVL accreditation must contact Marcus Williams (0401 000 987, [email protected]) for a media pass to access Flemington Racecourse.
Filming racing vision and within the Mounting Yard is prohibited. This vision can be obtained from TVN.
Any photographers who wish to access the Mounting Yard and trackside must be inducted. An induction will take place in the Racing Press Room at 12.15pm sharp tomorrow.
What: Coolmore Lightning Stakes Day
Where: Flemington Racecourse, 400 Epsom Rd, Flemington
When: Tomorrow, Saturday, 18 February
Talent and
Opportunities: – Black Caviar
– Peter Moody (Black Caviar’s trainer)
– Luke Nolen (Black Caviar’s jockey)
– Black Caviar’s owners
– Official Black Caviar Cheer Squad
– Dale Monteith (VRC CEO)
– Living Legends Apache Cat and Silent Witness (parading before Coolmore Lightning Stakes)
