The Gold Coast Turf Club’s chances of getting its first Group One race have been boosted by a prize money boost for the Group Two Hollindale Stakes.
Racing Queensland has announced the Aquis QTIS 2YO Jewel and the TAB Hollindale Stakes will have stakes increases to $500,000.
The Aquis QTIS 3YO Jewel will also receive a significant boost to $200,000.
The increases have been made possible by sponsorships from Aquis and the TAB.
The Hollindale Stakes on May 4, will increase from $358,000 to $500,000 in a move aimed at attracting some of Australia’s top weight-for-age performers to the Gold Coast.
The race has been won by horses such as Rough Habit, Might And Power, Danewin, Shogun Lodge, Scenic Shot and Streama.
The GCTC has been hoping to get an upgrade to Group One for the Hollindale which is a traditional lead-up to the Doomben Cup.
The increase for Aquis QTIS Jewel, on March 16, means QTIS-eligible horses will compete for $1.5 million in stakes.
RQ chief executive Brendan Parnell said the increases for Jewel Day would provide even more incentive for buyers at the 2019 Gold Coast March Yearling Sale, featuring lots by Queensland sires Spirit Of Boom and Better Than Ready.
“The Hollindale is a proven form-line for horses targeting the Doomben Cup, so the increase aims to make it an even more attractive lead-up,” Parnell said.
“Ultimately, the aim is to work alongside the Gold Coast Turf Club to ensure the Hollindale receives the highest rating possible with a view to achieving Group One status in future years.”
