The Victorian thoroughbred racing industry will again honour Australia’s and New Zealand’s fallen heroes this ANZAC Day.
All jockeys riding the top-weighted horses in each race at Flemington and Moe on Thursday, 25 April will wear a special set of ANZAC Day commemorative colours.
Horses are ingrained in ANZAC history, with more than 136,000 having travelled to the battlefields from Australian shores during World War One.
At Flemington, a traditional ceremony will be held to commemorate the Australian and New Zealand men and women who died in battle, and the contribution of those who have served both countries during wartime.
Living Legends California Memory and Rogan Josh will also parade in the mounting yard, and racegoers will be invited to play ‘Two-Up’ between the first (1pm) and last (5.10pm) races.
On the track, the eight-race program is highlighted by the running of the $200,000 Listed VRC St. Leger (2800m), the classic staying test for three-year-olds which will be run for the 162nd time this year. Supporting this time-honoured race is the Listed ANZAC Day Stakes (1400m) for two-year-olds.
At Moe, gates open at 12pm and official proceedings get underway with the traditional flag-raising ceremony.
The 13th Light Horse Gippsland Regiment will also perform in full dress as a tribute to the soldiers who have served their country.
“ANZAC Day is always a special occasion in the racing calendar, with the industry uniting to remember the brave men, women and horses who sacrificed their lives for their country,” said RV CEO, Giles Thompson.
“Flemington and Moe will both stage family-friendly fixtures, giving racegoers young and old the chance to take part in a range of activities that observe the ANZAC spirit.”