Racing powerhouse Yulong has signalled its intent for another triumph in the Blue Diamond Stakes, lodging 145 entries for the 2026 edition of the $2 million feature.
The Melbourne Racing Club confirmed that a total of 1456 nominations were received when entries closed for the prestigious juvenile contest.
Yulong is chasing consecutive victories after celebrating its maiden Blue Diamond success earlier this year when Devil Night claimed the title for Hawkes Racing.
Leading trainers Ciaron Maher and Chris Waller are also aiming to secure their first Blue Diamond wins, with Maher submitting 132 nominations and Waller 118. Lindsay Park, operated by Ben, JD and Will Hayes, has nominated 85 juveniles as it pushes to extend its record haul in the race, last striking in 2023 with Little Brose.
Among stallion representation, I Am Invincible leads the way with 77 progeny nominated, followed closely by Snitzel with 63. Champion first-season sire Ole Kirk has 30 entries, while Home Affairs has emerged as the standout among new sires with 62 nominations.
The 2026 Blue Diamond Stakes will be contested at Caulfield on February 21.
Punters keen to get involved in early betting markets for the Blue Diamond Stakes can find the latest odds through leading betting sites.
