Written by Ray Thomas.
The Group 3 $200,000 Newcastle Newmarket’s name change to the Newcastle Stakes might catch some unawares at Broadmeadow on Friday.
But the Newcastle Jockey Club’s decision is in line with the club’s to “become a more modern and progressive club.”
“We certainly value and recognise the racing history at Newcastle Racecourse but it was time to modify this race name in order to better connect with our city and the Newcastle Stakes fits that bill,” said NJC Chief Executive Duane Dowell.
“Thanks to Racing NSW there is also a prizemoney boost to $200,000 which will assist in keeping this time-honoured race in the sights of some of the best horses as they progress through the autumn carnival.”
Champion Newcastle trainer Kris Lees will be represented by topweight Gem Song and Bellatrix Black as he attempts a fifth successive win in the feature autumn carnival sprinter after his successes with Wandabaa (2022), Gem Song (2021), Special Reward (2020) and Princess Posh (2019).
The feature juvenile race on the Newcastle program has also had a name chance and will now be known as the Paul Perry 2YO Handicap (formerly The Beaumont).
“Paul was not only best known for his trailblazing achievements with Choisir but is also a very good trainer of two-year-old including 2005 Golden Slipper winner Stratum,” Dowell added.
“The race is a good fit recognising one of Newcastle’s most successful trainers.”
https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/horse-racing/a-1-million-bonus-is-up-for-grabs-if-smart-colt-cylinder-can-win-his-next-two-starts/news-story/d7702b910b09a73b358770bfb8c6ac2b
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