This Saturday’s Randwick meet gives punters plenty to look forward to, with the Civic Stakes (1400m) drawing 27 nominations for a race with only 16 spots available. Among the possible starters are several proven gallopers with triple-figure ratings, including Iknowastar (105), Willaidow (103), and two UK-bred runners in Welawal (104) and Mighty Ulysses (101).
Iknowastar could be one to watch if his team decides to run. His only race this year was a last-place finish in Group 3 company behind Stradbroke Handicap winner War Machine, but he’s shown form in recent barrier trials. The Civic Stakes isn’t the only race pulling in strong nominations, either. A Benchmark 94 Handicap over 1200m has also drawn 27 entries, including Godolphin’s promising Kerguelen, who has won three and placed in another three of his six career starts.
Why These Races Matter
For anyone looking to bet in Australia, safe Aussie sportsbooks offer one of the most established and active betting environments in the world. With bookmakers, detailed form guides, and extensive coverage of metropolitan and country meetings alike, Australian horse racing continues to be a major attraction.
So, if you’re keen to plan a day at the track, here are the race days across the country that are worth seeing in person.
Melbourne Cup, Flemington, VIC
Held on the first Tuesday of November, the Melbourne Cup is the most famous race in the country. It draws international runners, fashion-conscious crowds, and millions of dollars in betting turnover. It’s a two-mile handicap with a deep field and unpredictable outcomes. This is the one race day where even people who don’t follow racing all year still get involved.
The Everest, Randwick, NSW
Despite only being introduced in 2017, The Everest has become a standout event. With massive prize money and a top field of sprinters, it’s a magnet for racing fans across the country. It’s run over 1200 metres and has added a major drawcard to the Sydney spring racing season.
Cox Plate, Moonee Valley, VIC
This is one of the most respected weight-for-age races on the calendar. Held in late October, the Cox Plate is run at Moonee Valley, a tight track that produces close and thrilling finishes. It’s the race that’s seen champions like Winx, So You Think, and Sunline at their best.
Stradbroke Handicap, Eagle Farm, QLD
This is Queensland’s biggest race and sits right in the middle of the winter racing season. It’s a Group 1 over 1400m and always attracts a strong field. The 2025 edition was won by War Machine (NZ), who’s quickly becoming one of the more talked-about horses in training. The Stradbroke continues to be a key stop for horses chasing sprinting honours outside the major Sydney and Melbourne carnivals.
Magic Millions, Gold Coast, QLD
The Magic Millions isn’t just a race day, it’s a week-long event built around the famous yearling sales. The races are restricted to horses bought at the Magic Millions auctions, but that doesn’t take away from the standard. The 2YO Classic in particular has been a launchpad for future stars. The event is held in January and offers something a bit different from the traditional metro race days.
Adelaide Cup, Morphettville, SA
Run over 3200m in March, the Adelaide Cup is South Australia’s biggest staying race and carries plenty of local support. It’s a public holiday in the state and gives racegoers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the high-pressure scenes of Melbourne and Sydney. While the prize money doesn’t compare with the Cup or Everest, it’s an enjoyable and historic day out.
Civic Stakes Day, Randwick, NSW
While not a headline event, days like this Saturday at Randwick show how competitive Australian racing can be even outside the big carnivals. With oversubscribed fields and a good mix of seasoned runners and new talent, these race days are often where you spot future group winners before they become household names. The track is rated a Soft 7, and the rail is out three metres, which could suit horses coming off a quiet trail and looking to bounce back.
Australian racing isn’t confined to a few big dates on the calendar. Whether you’re at Flemington with a crowd of 100,000 or watching a Benchmark sprint at Randwick on a soft track, there’s plenty of action to enjoy. Every state has its headline races, and plenty of regional tracks also offer strong cards and local favourites.
