A bunch of the nation’s best two-year-olds will aim to shine brightest in the 50th anniversary of the Neds Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on Saturday, with the Club given permission by the Victorian Government to proceed with up to 9,000 spectators, split into three zones across the course.
Undefeated filly Enthaar has long held favouritism for the $1.5 million feature, her trainers Ciaron Maher and David Eustace hoping that she can be the one to secure them a maiden Blue Diamond Stakes title. She’ll have to contend with several including late entry General Beau who is aiming for a clean sweep of the Neds Blue Diamond Stakes Series following his victories in the boy’s editions of Preview and Prelude.
Godolphin has three live chances in the race in Arcaded, Ingratiating and Anamoe, the latter selected to ride by champion hoop Damien Oliver.
The undercard is something else, led by the mouth-watering line-up for the Group 1 Lamaro’s Sth Melbourne Futurity Stakes (1400m). Track and distance specialist and returning champion Streets Of Avalon is joined by Toorak Handicap winner Mr Quickie, Memsie/Rupert Clarke hero Behemoth, New Zealand starlet Probabeel, Caulfield Guineas conqueror Ole Kirk and Perth royalty Arcadia Queen in what promises to be one of the all-time great battles at the Heath.
The Neds Oakleigh Plate (1100m) rounds out the trio of Group 1 contests, the likes of speed machines Ancestry and Anders set to give new meaning to the phrase ‘go like an Oakleigh Plater’. Last year’s runner-up Zoutori and 2018 Blue Diamond Stakes winner Hanseatic will also take their place in the 1100m dash, with William Pike crossing the Nullarbor for the first time this year and will partner mare Celebrity Queen.
The T’Gallant Wine Bar, Members Spritz Lawn presented by Squealing Pig and the ever-popular Carlton Draught Front Bar will light up with activity along with our premium dining restaurants and trusty Members venue. The front lawn will be graced with punters cheering the quality fields of equine stars as they race in what is set to be one of the hottest days of racing this Summer.
MRC Members yet to renew their Membership for the remainder of the 20/21 are encouraged to do so ahead of Saturday to make the most of the Members experience on one of the most beloved race days on the calendar.
New Members are also encouraged to make the most of the special Members offer of $199 for the next six months, which includes access to the Members Reserve for the remainder for the season.
