MRC increases trials in 2025/26 season

The Melbourne Racing Club (MRC) has announced a new initiative to improve access to metropolitan grass tracks, scheduling 15 official trials throughout the 2025/26 season.

The trials, beginning Tuesday morning, will be staged primarily on the Caulfield Heath track and are designed to complement existing jumpouts and gallops held across MRC venues.

“We’re delighted to provide a solution that meets the needs of trainers, jockeys and owners alike,” MRC acting CEO Tanya Fullarton said.

“The annual schedule of official trials not only provides grass access under race day conditions, but also reflects the MRC’s commitment to giving industry participants the facilities they require for race preparation.”

The move comes after Cranbourne reached capacity and could no longer provide trials at the same scale, making Caulfield Heath an important hub for Melbourne-based participants.

The new structure also ensures jockeys are paid for their services, while offering a centralised option after a period when many official trials were staged far from the city.

In its statement, the MRC said jumpouts at Caulfield Heath will be prioritised for Mornington trainers, with limited places potentially extended on a case-by-case basis. Course proper gallops at Caulfield remain restricted to horses nominated for feature race days.

The club also confirmed upgrades to facilities, with sauna and spa amenities available in the jockey rooms at Caulfield Heath and Sandown during trials and jumpouts. Complimentary food and drinks, including egg and bacon rolls, pastries, coffee and juice, will also be provided to participants.

Tuesday’s opening session will feature several headline horses, with Tom Kitten, Charm Stone and Tuvalu among those set to trial at Caulfield Heath.

Punters tracking the stars stepping out at the Caulfield Heath trials can find odds and futures markets on upcoming feature races through Australia’s leading betting sites.