Blue Diamond Stakes in Australia
The Caulfield Racecourse, in Australia, is located approximately eight kilometers outside of Melbourne. It is affectionately known as “The Heath”, for when racing first started here, in the year 1859, jockeys were forced to navigate their horses through sand, bush and heath. Today the Caulfield Racecourse is one of the top racecourses in Australia, with the new course that was opened in 1996. This course accommodates three racing lengths, namely the 2000 meter, 1800 meter and 1700 meter. It is also home to the Melbourne Racing Club and the prestigious Blue Diamond Stakes.
The Blue Diamond Stakes is one of the top calendar events of the racing season, as it is one of the best-known races for two year olds in the Group One thoroughbred racing circuit. The race is run over a distance of 1200 meters and has a magnificent prize money amount of AUD $1 000 000. Past winners of this racing spectacular include Out of Danger (1976), Manikato (1978), Black Shoes (1981), Rancher (1982), Courtza (1989), Hurricane Sky (1994), Redoute’s Choice (1999), Road to Success (2000), Alinghi (2004) and the winner for 2007, Sleek Chassis.
This year, the Arrowfield Stud Blue Diamond Stakes will take place on the 23rd of February 2008, and will once again attract the racing elite. All eyes will definitely be on jockey Dwayne Dunn, who seems to be bringing home the winners since 2005, when he won on Undoubtedly. In 2006 he won with Nadeem and backed last years’ winner all the way to the winners circle. Race day already has a full program that not only includes nail biting racing, magnificent horses and proud owners, but will be present various attractions for the public. Visitors can look forward to the Perri Cutten Fashion Show, the Rokk Ebony Fashions on the Field Competition and the Sporting Celebrity Luncheon.
As one of the most significant racing events of the year, the Blue Diamond Stakes never fails to impress. With lucrative prize money, attractions, activities and a line-up of some of the greatest two year-old horses, it is an event that should not be missed. It is where class, excitement, elegance and good racing come together.
