2017 - 2018
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
CONTENTS
Background to The Auckland Racing Club
2
Key Statistics
4
Season Calendar
5
Feature Racedays
6
Dress Code
14
Fashion at Ellerslie
16
Ticketing & Hospitality Options
18
Membership 19 Stars of the Season
20
How to Place a Bet 22 Racing Terminology
24
How to Read the Racebook
27
Media Protocols & Important Information
28
Racecourse Map
34
Important Contacts & Details
35
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AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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WELCOME TO
ELLERSLIE RACECOURSE
As I sit and write this welcome message, to bring in our new season, I am struggling with the sun streaming through our office window. It’s a nice problem to have and a welcome one too as it signals Spring and the start of the season is well and truly upon us. This time of year is wonderful; the horses’ coats have blossomed and our track is slowly moving towards the ‘Good’ range. Flowers that lay dormant around our gorgeous grounds are now starting to flourish and everyone has that little spring in their step! I must say how proud and honoured I am to be at the helm of The Auckland Racing Club (ARC). This is a club steeped in history - we have been holding meetings here for 160 years and will continue to do so for many more to come. Our club is an asset that both the industry, and the wider Auckland region, can be proud of. The team here at the ARC is highly engaged and hardworking, supported by a very strong Board that has racing at its heart. This season brings some positive changes. We welcome back established and new sponsors, who are critical in allowing us to drive the wonderful showcase that we present over our respective racedays. It is also pleasing to note that this year the ARC will invest over $1million in increased stakes, over and above funds received from our governing body. This stakes increase is especially significant given we have five less race meetings than usual due to the body of work we will undertake to improve our track’s drainage.
This important project is being carried out after Auckland Cup Week in March, where the track will be closed for a period so that new drainage can be installed. Finally, I wish all our trainers, jockeys, horses and connections all the best for this coming season. I also welcome our members, racegoers and people that may not have ever been to a raceday before a very warm welcome to the ARC and trust that you will enjoy what we have on offer. It is going to be a cracker! Spoil your senses,
Paul Wilcox CEO, Auckland Racing Club
2
BACKGROUND TO THE
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB
2017 marks the 160th year that racing has taken place at the historic Ellerslie Racecourse with the first ever race held between seven horses on 21st January, 1857. Some years later, on 9th January 1874, The Auckland Racing Club officially came into existence following an amalgamation of two existing clubs - the Auckland Jockey Club and Auckland Turf Club. Racing in Auckland had actually begun some 32 years earlier on Epsom Racecourse, or ‘Epsom Downs’ as it was known, which was located on a site 10 kilometres from the city. The first raceday there took place on 5th January, 1842, with the racecard consisting of just two races – the Auckland Town Plate and Valparaiso Stakes Handicap. Racedays then became an annual event for Aucklanders and by 1849, were wellestablished on the city’s ‘social calendar’. Four years later, in 1853, the Auckland Jockey Club was formed and ten years after that, the Club’s committee adopted a comprehensive set of rules and regulations to govern the sport of racing.
Some twenty years later, in 1873, the Auckland Turf Club was introduced as a rival to Auckland Jockey Club. However, after just two days racing on the 26th and 27th of December that year, the Turf Club joined forces with the Jockey Club to form what is now known as Auckland Racing Club. The first two days racing under the auspices of Auckland Racing Club were held on the 25th and 26th May, 1874, at Ellerslie Racecourse – a site that had been used infrequently for racing up until to that time. From these modest beginnings developed one of the finest racecourses in the world – a serious rival for the best that Great Britain, Ireland, France, America, South Africa and Australia could produce. Ellerslie Racecourse is now well-regarded as being New Zealand’s premier racing venue and the provider of an entertaining infusion of sport, fashion, celebration and glamour to Aucklanders throughout the year. As with all great racecourses, racing at Ellerslie is of a consistently high standard and a number of great gallopers have graced its turf since racing's inception there all those years ago.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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THE FACTS AND FIGURES THAT CAN BE PULLED OUT OF ELLERSLIE ARE ENDLESS Read on for some key points that you may find interesting – others are always available on request. WHEN DOES AUCKLAND RACING CLUB’S (ARC) RACING SEASON BEGIN? Like all racecourses in New Zealand, ARC's racing season officially begins on 1st August – the same day that all thoroughbred horses in the Southern Hemisphere celebrate their birthday. WHAT ARE ARC’S THREE ‘RICHEST’ RACES? Also New Zealand’s richest, they are: 1. Group 1 $1,000,000 Vodafone New Zealand Derby for three year old horses 2. Listed $1,000,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million for two year old horses 3. Listed, $1,000,000 Karaka Million 3YO Classic for three year old horses.
WHICH WAY DO THE HORSES RACE AT ELLERSLIE AND WHY? Horses at Ellerslie race right-handed. In other words, as they run around the track the inside rail is on their right. There’s no specific reason for this - a racecourse will be either left or right-handed. Horses can race either way too, although you will find some prefer racing one way over the other.
4
KEY
S TAT I S T I C S
$9,900,000
7,000kg
The total prize money on offer at Ellerslie this season.
The total quantity of champagne ham eaten on racedays at Ellerslie last season.
300,000+
1,971
The number of people who attended either an event or raceday at Ellerslie Racecourse last season.
Total number of horses that raced at Ellerslie last season.
1,876m
50,000
The length of Ellerslie’s track.
The number of glasses of bubbly served last season.
382m
1,450
The length of Ellerslie’s home straight.
The number of temporary staff employed last season.
179 The number of races run at Ellerslie last season.
8,000 The number of (horse) shoes the farrier will check on racedays at Ellerslie this season.
17 The number of racedays to be held at Ellerslie this season.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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SEASON
CALENDAR
YEAR
MONTH
DATE
RACEDAY
2017
September
09
Irvines Great Northern Day
30
St Patrick's Cathedral Raceday
October
28
Partners Life Raceday for Cure Kids ft Whips n Spurs
November
07
OMF Melbourne Cup Day
December
02
Christmas at the Races Eagle Technology Raceday
09
Christmas at the Races Life Education Raceday by Barfoot & Thompson
13
Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Summer Night ft. Jockeys’ World Cup Prelude
17
Christmas at the Races Auckland Age Concerns Raceday
26
Christmas Carnival Boxing Day Races
29
Christmas Carnival Summer Raceday
01
Christmas Carnival New Year's Day Races
14
Interislander Summer Festival Family Raceday
27
New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million
February
17
The Rising Foundation Avondale Guineas Irish Raceday
March
03
Auckland Cup Week Vodafone Derby Day
10
Auckland Cup Week Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup Day
2018
January
6
OMF MELBOURNE C U P D AY
TUESDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2017
Each year on the first Tuesday in November, Australia’s Flemington Racecourse hosts the event that captures the hearts of a nation – the Emirates Melbourne Cup. However it’s not just a competition for those across the ditch, it’s also a favourite for the thousands of New Zealanders who gather together in celebration of one of the world’s biggest sporting events. The day generates over $13 million worth of betting around New Zealand and is the TAB’s single largest event of the year, with high public engagement. A genuine raceday, Tuesday 7th November at Ellerslie comes alive with a number of horse races happening oncourse, live coverage of the action from Flemington on the super screen, the finest in hospitality offerings, an on-site after-party and a competition for the best dressed oncourse.
Auckland's Biggest Melbourne Cup Day Party.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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CHRISTMAS
AT T H E R AC E S
EAGLE TECHNOLOGY RACEDAY
Saturday 2nd December LIFE EDUCATION RACEDAY PRESENTED BY BARFOOT & THOMPSON
Saturday 9th December AUCKLAND AGE CONCERNS RACEDAY
Sunday 17th December
There’s nothing quite like Christmas at Ellerslie - great company, delicious food, live music and a buzzing atmosphere all set to an entertaining backdrop of thoroughbred racing. A variety of hospitality areas make these days a great way for friends and colleagues to celebrate Christmas, and the course is humming with groups enjoying the atmosphere. A Christmas party spent trackside combines the best an end-of-year party has to offer – food, wine, summer, the social scene, sport and entertainment.
Making the end of year party a winner
8
BARFOOT & THOMPSON
TWILIGHT SUMMER NIGHT WEDNESDAY 13 DECEMBER 2017
Kicking off late afternoon and leading into a warm summer's evening, there's plenty of entertainment on offer at this party whether it is out on the track or from around the bar. An event not to be missed, think your standard raceday - glamorous & stylish - but at the same time fast-paced and action-packed. Each year Aucklanders descend on Ellerslie for this crowd-favourite event, soaking up the lively atmosphere of an evening at the races in corporate marquees, private rooms & balconies, shared dining spaces or the infamous Garden Party. Then, once the horses have been tucked up in bed, everyone gets together and really lets their hair down at the on-site after party at the place to be – Cuvée Champagne Bar & Lawn. This year will be something quite different with the introduction of the international Jockeys’ World Cup Prelude. A concept born out of a passion for the sport of racing and a desire to bridge the gap between the glory of the past and the needs of a new audience - the Jockeys’ World Cup (JWC) is a new, top-level entertainment and racing product designed to recognise and honour the true heroes of thoroughbred racing, the riders.
HOW IT WORKS • There are four teams of three jockeys - the teams will be International, New Zealand, Women & Apprentices • Each team will have an ‘owner’ (sponsor) in whose name each will compete • Jockeys will be allocated horses in four races, these will be drawn at a launch/ media event on the Sunday prior to the JWC Prelude • Points accumulated across the four races on the night will determine the winning team • Horses still race and win stakes for their connections; the JWC team competition will be a new and novel overlay on the existing racing product • Kiwi fashion designer Annie Lovejoy has been charged with designing the jockeys’ silks, ensuring they race in a look of the modern day - something never before seen on track at Ellerslie • Ambassador Gracie Taylor will bring the event to life, both on track and online, bringing racing’s riding heroes to a new audience.
A party like nowhere else AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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THE
C H R I S T M A S C A R N I VA L
The Auckland institution of racing, fashion and celebration BOXING DAY RACES
TUESDAY 26 DECEMBER 2017
Running for 160 years, the Boxing Day Races are an institution on Auckland's social calendar. This event is a magnificent day of high fashion, entertainment, socialising and premier thoroughbred racing. Boxing Day has traditionally been the biggest day on the local racing calendar in New Zealand. Of all the racedays held at Ellerslie throughout the season, Boxing Day produces the largest oncourse crowds with the Carnival itself attracting approx. 25,000 people across the three days.
THE DAY FEATURES • Launch of The Paddock – an all-new festive, sociable precinct for partygoers in the famous infield • A major Fashions in the Field competition, this year with new-look categories • Top class racing including Group status races • Sociable hospitality precincts including Cuvée and the Champagne Lawn • The famous Family Zone in the infield complete with children’s entertainment, food vendors and the ability to bring your own picnic lunch and unopened, nonalcoholic beverages.
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THE
C H R I S T M A S C A R N I VA L
NEW YEAR'S DAY RACES
MONDAY 01 JANUARY 2018
For those who head along to Ellerslie on January 1st, they join a longstanding tradition. Arguably the best day’s horse racing in the country, of the 10 races, an impressive number carry black-type status. Each year, the gates open to a crowd that is seeking to be entertained by either the company they keep, the first-class horse racing on offer or the other elements that are brought to life on this classic day’s racing.
New Year’s Day is also proving to be an attractive option for families who choose to spend the holiday period in Auckland, with all number of groups setting up picnics on the expansive lawns & enjoying the free children’s entertainment on offer. THE DAY FEATURES • First-class racing with six black type races • Sociable hospitality precincts including Cuvée and the Alfresco Barbeque Lawn • Great family entertainment.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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NEW ZEALAND BLOODSTOCK KARAKA MILLION SATURDAY 27 JANUARY 2018
Thousands of entertainment-seekers converge oncourse at Ellerslie each year for a combination of socialising, racing & entertainment. A staple date in many an Aucklander’s calendar, the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million draws a stylish crowd from far & wide, who converge on the track to celebrate. For little over one minute, the crowd will hold its breath as 14 of the country’s most promising two-year-old thoroughbred horses, & some of Australasia’s best jockeys, compete for their share of one of NZ’s richest sporting purses – the $1,000,000 Karaka Million.
And if one million-dollar contest wasn’t enough, this season ARC is really upping the ante with yet another million-dollar race - the $1,000,000 Karaka Million 3YO Classic – and four Group status races run in support. Off the track, the party is just as rich with the who’s who of the international racing world mixing with an influx of Auckland’s social set in any number of sell-out precincts oncourse. The racecourse buzzes from the get-go and when the last race is run, everyone descends upon the on-site Cuvée Bar where a live band & DJ(s) carry the party on ‘til late.
One spectacular party; New Zealand’s richest racing event
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WELCOME TO
AUCKLAND CUP WEEK THE BEST ON SHOW
At Auckland Cup Week, world-class horses thunder past an expectant audience, whose dreams are riding on an outcome just milliseconds away. Between times some gather to watch the colour & pageantry of the day’s fashion, where a headpiece & outfit could be the difference between prize or participation.
the day’s enjoyment. Throughout the day, flutes of Mumm Champagne are clinked, fine beverages are consumed and mouthwatering fare is savoured. When the official proceedings are over, everyone gets together & kicks up their heels at the on-site after-party in celebration.
Meanwhile out on the green lawns and inside the decadent marquees & rooms, groups mingle & snap photos to capture
Two magical days, one magnificent event
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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VODAFONE
D E R B Y D AY SATURDAY 03 MARCH 2018
Vodafone Derby Day is the glamour day of Auckland Cup Week, with the running of the $1,000,000 Vodafone New Zealand Derby. Following the tradition of Derby Days across the world, black and white takes centre stage for the style conscious. Those with an eye for fashion can hit the catwalk with one last chance to qualify for Viva Prix de Fashion, the national fashions in the field final held oncourse later in the day. FEATURES OF THE DAY INCLUDE • New Zealand’s richest Group 1 race – the $1,000,000 Vodafone New Zealand Derby • National fashions in the field final - Viva Prix de Fashion • Great family entertainment • Exquisite hospitality options plus the infamous on-site after party • Singing of the national anthem.
BARFOOT & THOMPSON A U C K L A N D C U P D AY SATURDAY 10 MARCH 2018
Arguably the most prestigious day of racing on New Zealand’s racing calendar, Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup Day gives all Aucklanders a chance to get oncourse and cheer home some of the best thoroughbred horses in the country, as well as celebrate their city’s iconic ‘Cup’ race. This massive day is the pinnacle of Auckland Cup Week – a spectacular event filled with racing, fashion, the best in hospitality and entertainment. It truly is where the best are on show and this year, will be the last raceday in Ellerslie’s calendar while the track undergoes an upgrade over the cooler months. FEATURES OF THE DAY INCLUDE • Iconic races including the Group 1 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup • Exciting hospitality options & events including a fashion competition & on-site after party • Singing of the national anthem • Great family entertainment.
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DRESSING
FOR THE RACES
If you're coming racing at Ellerslie Racecourse, get excited! Racing & fashion go hand-in-hand, offering one of the best opportunities to get dressed up and make the most of an occasion like no other. Dressing up for the races is no new phenomenon - from the olden day tales of women putting ostrich feathers in their hair in order to attract a suitable husband out of the crowds, to model Jean Shrimpton's legs that stopped a nation at Australia's Victoria Derby Day in the 1960s, right through to current day where the likes of Instagram is flooded with searches for racewear inspiration coming out of major events such as Royal Ascot or the Melbourne Cup where the Royal Family & celebrities alike dress up & enjoy the occasion of a day spent trackside. Racedays at Ellerslie Racecourse are no different - racegoers are warmly encouraged to get dressed up for the occasion, no matter where they may choose to spend their day oncourse. A dress code applies to certain areas and entry may be refused if this is not adhered to. Please remember it is the eventgoer’s responsibility to ensure both their attire, and that of their guests, meets the required standards.
ASCOT (MEMBERS) STAND SMART • No shorts, singlets, jandals or collarless shirts will be accepted in any area of this stand • Most people will be in raceday attire, i.e. suits and dresses (with headpieces on major days), and a high standard of dress is encouraged in this stand • Jeans are discouraged and they are not permitted on the Members-only floor (Level 2) • Traditionally guests into this stand have dressed smartly for the occasion & this tradition continues to current day, particularly at major events such as Melbourne Cup Day, the Christmas Carnival, Karaka Million & Auckland Cup Week where suits, ties & headpieces are not uncommon. A smart casual dress code is more regularly permitted on smaller racedays.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
15 AFTER RACE ACTIVITY SUCH AS ON-SITE AFTER PARTY If eventgoers are staying oncourse after the last race to continue the fun, they must be suitably attired as per the Ascot (Members) Stand dress code to ensure they can be admitted to any post-race activity.
ALL HOSPITALITY AREAS SILKS, CUVEE, GARDEN PARTY, RACING VILLAGE, MARTINI HENRY LOUNGE, ETC DRESS TO IMPRESS / SMART
While Auckland Racing Club wants patrons to have a fabulous day while they are oncourse, there are a few items that they should avoid wearing: • Ripped clothing • No denim on Level 2 of the Ascot Stand or within shared hospitality precincts
• No shorts, denim, singlets, jandals or collarless shirts will be accepted in any shared hospitality area on course
• Jandals (with the exception of precincts within the infield unless otherwise stated)
• Most people will be in raceday attire, i.e. suits and dresses, and a high standard of dress is encouraged in these areas
• Casual Shorts (suit shorts are acceptable in some areas such as Whips n Spurs, Garden Parties and The Paddock)
• Headpieces of some sort (hat, crown, headband, fascinator) are not uncommon in these areas, nor are suits & ties
• Shirts without a collar
• As we typically only open shared hospitality options on our bigger racedays, we suggest guests to rise to the occasion and take advantage of the unique opportunity a day at the races presents whereby it's completely acceptable to really dress up.
GENERAL ADMISSION ELLERSLIE (PUBLIC) STAND & PUBLIC LAWN AREAS INCLUDING THE INFIELD TIDY CASUAL DRESS • While there is no specific dress code in general admission areas oncourse, tidy dress is expected • Guests are most welcome to wear raceday attire in public areas, particularly on major days (such as Melbourne Cup Day, the Christmas Carnival, Karaka Million & Auckland Cup Week) where a lot of guests in public areas will be dressed in raceday attire i.e. suits, dresses.
• Sports shoes
• Parkas, windbreakers, tracksuit tops, golf and yachting weatherproofs, bomber jackets, denim jackets, leather jackets, anoraks or zipped jackets • Safari suits or tracksuits • Peaked caps or beanies (with the exception of precincts within the infield unless otherwise stated) • All clothing should be tidy and presentable.
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FASHION
AT E L L E R S L I E Glamour, fashion and racing go hand-inhand with Fashions in the Field events being held around the world since their inception at Australia’s Flemington Racecourse, where they were initially created to woo women to the races. An integral part of the entertainment mix at Ellerslie Racecourse, competitions continue the traditions of a raceday, but also allow guests an opportunity to get behind the thrill of possibility that comes when preparing for any special occasion. The competitions are a variety of catwalk and non-catwalk events that culminate with Viva Prix de Fashion at Auckland Cup Week. The following page outlines the catwalk competitions at Ellerslie this season. WHIPS N SPURS SPRING FILLY SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER
FASHIONS IN THE FIELD
TUESDAY 26 TH DECEMBER 2017
Fashions in the Field has become synonymous with the Boxing Day Races at Ellerslie. The event plays an integral part in setting the fashion standards at Ellerslie and has developed a loyal following among the fashion elite, attracting approximately 200 entrants per year. In 2017 Fashions in the Field has had a facelift with a new approach to categories and the potential addition of either ‘Petite Racewear’ to give our youngest attendees the chance to enjoy some time on the catwalk or a young designer category (tbc at time of print).
MELBOURNE CUP STYLE AWARD TUESDAY 07 NOVEMBER
THE 2017 FASHIONS IN THE FIELD CATEGORIES ARE
FASHIONS IN THE FIELD
• Women’s Racewear
BOXING DAY
• Men's Racewear
TUESDAY 26 DECEMBER VIVA PRIX DE FASHION NATIONAL FASHIONS IN THE FIELD FINAL SATURDAY 03 MARCH 2018 CUP COUTURE SATURDAY 10 MARCH 2018
• Petite Racewear (Under 10) / Young designer (tbc) • Millinery Award In each category, a winner and two runnerups will be chosen. The winner of Women’s Racewear will receive automatic entry into the national Fashions in the Field final, Viva Prix de Fashion, during Auckland Cup Week 2018.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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VIVA
P R I X D E FAS H I O N SATURDAY 3 RD MARCH 2018
The most prestigious nationwide fashions in the field event, Viva Prix de Fashion is the national final with winners from regional competitions making up many of the overall finalists. The culmination of fashions in the field competitions held at thoroughbred racing clubs across the country, Viva Prix de Fashion brings together the best of the best to find the New Zealand representative for the 2018 Myer Fashions on the Field as part of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. In 2016, previous Prix de Fashion winner Olivia Moore went on to win Myer Fashions on the Field at Flemington, confirming New Zealand racing fashion is holding its own at a truly international level. 2017’s Viva Prix de Fashion winner Hannah Carson will be representing New Zealand at the upcoming Melbourne Cup Carnival in November 2017.
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TICKETING & HOSPITALITY OPTIONS
Across the season, and especially during Auckland Cup Week, Auckland Racing Club (ARC) offers an exceptional opportunity for people to host their valued clients with numerous hospitality precincts & opportunities on offer. Options range from private rooms to spacious trackside marquees with picket-fenced garden areas for guests to be entertained.
PRIVATE HOSPITALITY Host a private function in one of Ellerslie Racecourse’s many modern rooms, balconies & outdoor areas and tailor them to bring a brand or party to life. With a variety of rooms, outdoor covered balconies and other spaces – including marquees - available for hire, there are plenty of options for anyone seeking their own private area from which to entertain valued guests on raceday.
What’s more, ARC’s hospitality professionals will be on hand every step of the way, ensuring a memorable entertaining experience is created. On the day they’ll also be there to take care of the finer details, meaning clients will be left with nothing else other than to relax & enjoy the big event. Private rooms and areas book out in advance of events so it is suggested potential bookers contact ARC sooner, rather than later, to determine availability and options.
SHARED HOSPITALITY Offering an unmatched range of entertaining shared hospitality options, guests are invited to be ARC’s guest and take their pick from the affordable, to the exclusive, on any raceday at Ellerslie Racecourse.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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MEMBERSHIP
Welcome to a world of prestige & benefits. Auckland Racing Club (ARC) members have the opportunity to experience many entitlements, in addition to being a part of a world class thoroughbred racing club. Members enjoy exclusive facilities on course at Ellerslie, a range of club & sponsor benefits, plus reciprocal privileges with a number of domestic & international thoroughbred racing clubs. BENEFITS OF BECOMING A MEMBER AT AUCKLAND RACING CLUB INCLUDE: • Admission to all ARC race meetings • Access to the Ascot (Members’) Stand including the members’ area on Level 2 • The ability to purchase additional annual guest passes and daily guest passes • Exclusive access to the ARC members’ carpark • Discount on raceday food and beverage purchases • Discount on premier raceday hospitality packages • Reciprocal rights with a number of national and international racing clubs, including priority purchasing of Melbourne Cup Carnival tickets
• 50% discount on room hire for the Ellerslie Event Centre (not including selected racedays) 5% discount on non-raceday package prices (Wedding Packages and Christmas Packages) for any event held at Ellerslie Event Centre • A range of discounts from ARC partners • Full ARC voting privileges • Ongoing membership communication programme.
MEMBERSHIP TYPES AND FEES ARC membership is valued at $630 with subscription fees based at: Young Member (18-35 years) $110 per season Standard Member (36+ years) $220 per season Overseas Member (for those living overseas) $145 per season Member’s guest card (up to two per member) $98 each For further information or an application form please contact: Kim Steven-Riley 09 522 3819 membership@ellerslie.co.nz
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STARS
OF THE SEASON
Each season on the track at Ellerslie there are some standout stars and at the annual awards raceday, the pick of the crop is announced. AUCKLAND RACING CLUB’S 2016/17 AWARD WINNERS WERE Horse Gingernuts Trainer Paul Richards with Peter & Dawn Williams Jockey Leith Innes Apprentice Jockey Doni Prastiyou Performance Gingernuts’ win in the Retina Specialists Avondale Guineas
THE ONES TO WATCH Everyone likes to have a good tip or two up their sleeve. We suggest you watch out for these names at Ellerslie Racecourse this summer: JOCKEYS Opie Bosson Currently New Zealand’s best jockey, Opie has ridden the winner of a number of Group 1 races at Ellerslie and in January, he also rode the winner of the $1,000,000 Karaka Million. Leith Innes Known as a big race rider who always performs during Auckland Racing Club carnivals, he’s formed a great relationship with one of New Zealand’s leading trainers in Tony Pike.
TRAINERS Tony Pike One of the country’s top trainers who trained the winner of the 2017 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup, he has a number of high quality horses in his stable including many high-class three-year-olds. Stephen McKee The McKee name is synonymous with winning races at Ellerslie Racecourse and we suggest you watch him strike on Karaka Million night in January 2018. HORSES Prom Queen A highly-rated three-year-old filly that should be very competitive in races during the Christmas Carnival. Felton Road Competitive as a two-yearold last season, this chap has improved with a bit of age and so expect to see him be very competitive in the three-year-old races over the Christmas Carnival and on Karaka Million night.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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22
HOW TO
PLACE A BET
Placing a bet isn’t an essential part of a raceday, but it can certainly add to the thrill so if you’re unsure on what to do, this is the guide for you. FIRST THINGS FIRST: All bets are placed in $1 multiples (i.e. you cannot place $1.50 on a horse to win). Bets on a raceday are placed at a ‘tote’ – an area where TAB staff are based throughout the day, normally complete with TV screens showing the odds. There are plenty of totes located throughout the course and in hospitality areas at Ellerslie and, while the TAB staff can’t provide you with a tip on who to pick, they'll talk you through placing a bet if you’re unsure.
HOW DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH MONEY YOU MIGHT WIN? A 'dividend' is the technical term for the amount a horse is paying to win or get a place (1st, 2nd and 3rd) in the race. Dividends are displayed on TV screens all around the racecourse, most often close to the totes. You'll see two monetary figures beside a horse's name. The first amount you see is what the horse is paying for a win and the second is its price should it place. The horse whose dividends are flashing is the race favourite which means it is the horse the majority of punters think will win. Interestingly, favourites win about 30% of the time.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
23 TWO SIMPLE BETS TO GET YOU STARTED ARE: $X FOR A WIN What to say: “$X for a win on horse number X” You receive the win dividend if your chosen horse wins.
the two horses. You can also pick more than two horses for a quinella bet (it will just cost a little more). TRIFECTA What to say: “A $X trifecta with horse number X for first, Y for second and Z for third”
For example, if you put $1 on a horse paying $5 to win and it comes in first you’ll receive $5. Put $2 on that same horse and you would win $10.
Pick three horses in the order you think they will finish (for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place) and you will receive this dividend. It’s risky but if successful, you are set to make a good return.
$X FOR A PLACE What to say: “$X for a place on horse number X
BOX TRIFECTA What to say: “A box trifecta on horses X, Y and Z”
You receive the place dividend if your horse comes first, second or third.
Costs a bit more than a trifecta, but could be easier to win – just pick three horses and if they are the first three place getters (in any order) you’re a winner.
For example, if you put $1 on a horse paying $8 to place and it comes in first, second or third, you’ll receive $8. Put $3 on that same horse and you would win $24. EACH WAY What to say: “$X each way on horse number X” Otherwise known as ‘hedging your bet’, this is a combination of a win and a place bet. If your horse wins, you walk away with both the win and place dividend, and if your horse comes second or third, you will collect the place dividend.
You can always pick more than three horses, it will just cost you a little more. PERCENTAGE BET What to say: “A percentage bet, I would like to pay $X for a (trifecta) on horse numbers X, Y, Z” (you can pick as many horses as you like) With percentage betting, you pay a percentage of the price it costs to place a trifecta, in return for collecting a percentage of the winnings.
Asking for a $1 each way bet will cost you a total of $2 and means you have placed $1 for a win and $1 for a place.
The minimum percentage bet you can place is $5 and the minimum bet value of each combination is five cents.
QUINELLA What to say: “A $X quinella on horse numbers X and Y”
EASY BET What to say: “An easy bet trifecta / quinella / win / place”
Feeling lucky? Just pick two horses to come first or second in any order and you will receive the quinella dividend. You won’t know what the quinella will pay until the race is run, as it depends on the odds of
If you’re having trouble deciding which horses to pick, this is the bet for you. The tote operator will issue you with a ticket after the computer has decided which horse to pick for.
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RACING
T E R M I N O LO GY
Racing is an interesting business but has lots of words that you might only hear around the racecourse. Here are a few key terms explained. ACTION: A horse’s manner of moving. BACKUP: To race a horse soon after its last race. BARRIER: The positions in the starting stall that the runners start the race from. BIRDCAGE: See Enclosure. BIT: A stainless steel, rubber or aluminium bar, attached to the bridle, which fits in the horse’s mouth and is one of the means by which a jockey exerts guidance and control. BLACKTYPE: Thoroughbred sale catalogues use boldface type to highlight horses that have won or placed in a stakes race e.g. Group 1, 2, 3 or Listed BOXED IN: A horse that is racing on the rails (or fence) and is surrounded by other horses in front, outside and behind it. A horse that is boxed in is held up and unable to gain a clear passage. BRIDLE: A piece of equipment usually made of leather or nylon, which fits on a horse’s head and is where other equipment, such as a bit and the reins, are attached.
CLERK OF THE COURSE: Mounted racecourse official wearing a red jacket, they manage the horses and jockeys on the racetrack where a person on foot or in a car is unable to. CLERK OF THE SCALES: An official whose chief duty is to weigh the riders before and after a race to ensure the correct weight is/ was carried. CORRECT WEIGHT: Horses are allocated a weight to carry that is checked before and, for at least the place getters, after a race. Correct weight must be signalled before bets can be paid out. EACHWAY: To bet for a win or a place ENCLOSURE: The area where the runners gather for viewing before and after the race. ENTIRE: Any male horse with testicles in the scrotum. FARRIER: Horseshoer, blacksmith. FIELD: All the individual runners listed by race. If you "take the field" you are backing every runner in the race. GROUP RACES: The very highest quality races which carry most prestige and prize money.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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HALF BROTHER, HALF SISTER: Horses out of the same dam but by different sires. It does not apply to horses by the same sires out of different dams. MAIDEN: A horse that has not yet won a race. Alternatively, a race for runners yet to win a race. PENETROMETER: A device used to measure the hardness or softness of the track by measuring the extent to which the device penetrates the ground. STAKES: The sums of money deposited or guaranteed by the parties to bet, or the amount of prize money available to placed runners in a race. STAYER: A horse that has the endurance to race well over long distances. STEWARD or STIPENDIARY STEWARDS: The people who control the day’s racing by ensuring that every runner competes on its merits and imposing penalties for any breach of the rules of racing.
STRAIGHT: From the home turn to the winning post. STRAPPER / STROPPER: Person, who assists the trainer, cares for the horse or helps to put on its equipment. Also known as an attendant. TOTALISATOR: All bets are placed into a pool, and dividends are paid by dividing the final pool by the amount invested on the winner, less a fixed percentage. WEIGH-IN: After each race, jockeys, their saddles and any additional weight they needed to carry are weighed in to ensure they complied with the set handicap.
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AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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HOW TO
READ A RACEBOOK
If you’re having no luck picking winners with your favourite jockey colours or by the prettiest horses, the racebook should be your next port of call.
By reading them right to left, you will be able to tell how the horse has placed in its last five races:
The racebook lists all races happening across the country (and sometimes internationally) on raceday. The top of each page will tell you what racecourse the race is being run at and races are listed in the book in order of timing.
• X means the horse hasn’t raced for a period of at least three months
Ellerslie’s resident tipsters offer up their favourite choices for each race at the top of the page and this is always a good place to start if you can’t decipher anything else. Next up, look for the numbers in bold font at the bottom left below each horse’s details.
• 0 means the horse was placed further back than 9th
• F means the horse fell in that race • 1 means the horse won! Then, read the expert comments below each horse’s details, they’ll offer some insight into the horse’s recent form. You might want to try picking your horse based on the jockey. Where do you find who that is? On the right-hand side of each horse’s form is the name of who will be riding it.
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MEDIA PROTOCOLS &
I M P O R TA N T I N F O R M AT I O N
Racedays provide a wealth of possible story opportunities and media are most welcome on course to capture them. The below information should act as a guide to raceday attendance for media at Ellerslie. ACCREDITATION Mango Communications manage Ellerslie’s PR and oversee raceday media accreditation. See page 35 for the team’s contact details. ALCOHOL POLICY Ellerslie is a fully-licensed venue and BYO alcohol is not permitted. Food and un-opened non-alcoholic beverages are permitted to be brought onto the grounds and consumed in outdoor, general admission areas. FAMILY-FRIENDLY Ellerslie offers a great day out for families. Children under 15 years receive free general admission to all racedays and there is always free entertainment (such as bouncy castles or swing ball games) on offer if the weather is nice. HOSPITALITY AREAS Media (with the accompaniment or approval of either the team from Mango or an Ellerslie Official) are able to enter shared hospitality areas for the purposes of capturing required photographs, footage or interviews.
Many hospitality areas offer food, beverages, racebooks and other items. These are for the use of patrons who have purchased a ticket into that area. Any media seen taking advantage of such offerings may be asked to leave and may have future raceday permissions revoked. A media pass does not provide access into private functions on course. IMAGES Ellerslie has an extensive library of raceday and race images. Please direct any requests for images to the team at Mango who will be able to source these for you and outline any required permissions. INTERVIEWS Opportunities There are a number of people involved with racing who may be of interest for interviews. For example: the chief executive, track manager, executive chef, commentator, jockeys, trainers, owners, breeders, milliners & designers, fashion entrants, judges & winners. The team at Mango will help you find the best person for your story. Arranging Some people on raceday are more accessible than others. Ideally, interview requests will be put through the team at Mango in advance of raceday in order to ensure you have the best possible chance of securing the person you’d like.
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MEDIA PROTOCOLS &
I M P O R TA N T I N F O R M AT I O N CONTINUED
As jockeys and trainers often have very tight timings on raceday, if you find yourself suddenly requiring an interview ‘on-the-day’, please liaise with the team from Mango who will do their best to find someone for you. After a race, the winning jockey & trainer will often provide quotes to media in the Birdcage – though may only have a short period to do so. Access into this area can be arranged by the team at Mango. On raceday, jockeys are not able to venture too far away from the Jockey Rooms and as such, options for interview locations may be limited. MEDIA BOX The Media Box is intended as a quiet space in which media can work on raceday. It has a fantastic view of the racecourse and provides easy access into the Birdcage. The Media Box is located in the Ascot Stand. From Level 1, head to the outside grandstand seating and turn right. The box is located ‘outside’ at the far end.
Wi-Fi is available for media and each raceday has a unique Wi-Fi code that can be found in the Media Box. Off-limits areas While a media pass will provide you with access into most areas oncourse, there are some areas that are strictly out-ofbounds and others whereby you are asked to gain pre-approval for access, or be escorted into by the team from Mango or an Ellerslie Official. Strictly out-of-bounds: • Back Parade Ring • Jockey Rooms • Private functions – unless permission granted pre-raceday by the function’s host • Stables Out-of-bounds unless pre-approved or accompanied by the team from Mango or an Ellerslie Official: • Birdcage - with the exception of preapproved racing media
Complimentary soft drinks and snacks are available for media along with seating, power points and a television tuned into the racing channel. Seating is available on a first-in, first-served basis.
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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MEDIA PROTOCOLS &
I M P O R TA N T I N F O R M AT I O N CONTINUED
• On-site after party • Commentator / Judges’ Box • Jockey weigh in/weigh out area • Other ticketed hospitality options • Presence on course in a working capacity more than ½ hour after the last race
Requests for vehicle access within the racecourse grounds (i.e. for the purposes of an OB) should be made well in advance of raceday. Due to the racecourse being ‘locked down’ to vehicles on raceday, an early arrival / late departure time may be required. License plate numbers will also be required, as will driver contact details.
• Presentation Dais
PERMISSIONS
• Stewards Room
As a member of the media, it is your responsibility to ensure you have obtained permission from racegoers in order to publish their image / quote / footage in any form.
• The track itself – NB: access only available when horses are not on it with permission. In addition, the team from Mango will happily arrange exclusive behind-thescenes tours. Parking Ellerslie offers free parking on every raceday. A limited number of reserved car parks may be available for media on a first-in, first-served basis – please contact the team at Mango pre-raceday to enquire about availability.
QUESTIONS You are always welcome to contact the team at Mango about anything – whether before, on or after raceday. In addition, staff in the Raceday Office (Ground Floor, Ascot Stand) are on-hand to help troubleshoot or answer your questions on raceday.
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AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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MEDIA PROTOCOLS &
I M P O R TA N T I N F O R M AT I O N CONTINUED
RACE FOOTAGE
TICKET / MEDIA PASS COLLECTION
Historical race footage is available on request and ‘on-the-day’ race footage can be arranged to be sent through immediately following a race. Please put any requests through to the team at Mango – ideally at least three working days before footage is required.
Mango will liaise with you on how to obtain your raceday tickets and/or passes. If they are to be collected on the day, they will be made available from one of two locations (depending on the raceday).
RACEDAY | RACE | EVENT NAMES Ellerslie has a wonderful stable of sponsors who support them by purchasing naming rights to racedays, races and events throughout the season. Where possible, please correctly reference anything that has a sponsor associated with it and if in doubt, contact the team at Mango for clarification. READER COMPETITIONS If you would like to offer your readers a raceday giveaway, get in touch with the team at Mango to discuss opportunities. ARC will often work with their raceday sponsors to create fantastic ticketing and/ or money-can’t-buy packages for your readers or followers to win. SPOKESPEOPLE On raceday, Ellerslie’s official spokespeople are: • Mr Paul Wilcox – Chief Executive Officer • Mr Craig Baker – Executive General Manager - Racing (racing-related matters) For interview requests or quotes, please contact the team at Mango in the first instance.
Those locations are: • Ticket Collection Booth – Located to the right of the turnstiles at the main entrance (Gate 6) • Raceday Office – Ground Floor, Ascot Stand LAST BUT NOT LEAST! Horses are valuable animals that can be unpredictable and prone to fright or flight. Racegoers and media are oncourse at their own risk. To help minimise risk, please exercise caution when in the vicinity of horses and avoid loud noises or sudden movements; reduce the use of flash on cameras; ensure any cameras or equipment are well away from racetrack fences during races or fences surrounding the Back Parade Ring and Birdcage; keep a safe distance between yourself and the horses when in the same area as them.
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RACECOURSE MAP
AUCKLAND RACING CLUB SEASON GUIDE 2017 - 2018 ELLERSLIE.CO.NZ | (09) 524 4069
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CONTACT
I N F O R M AT I O N
THE AUCKLAND RACING CLUB INC ELLERSLIE RACECOURSE 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera, Auckland 1050 PO Box 852 Shortland St, Auckland 1140
MEDIA ENQUIRIES For media accreditation and all consumer, news, racing and sports media enquiries please contact the team at Mango Communications
09 524 4069
CHLOE HEWITT
ellerslie.co.nz
09 302 4617 / 027 201 7371 chloeh@thisismango.co.nz
FACEBOOK facebook.com/ellerslieraces
IAN BENET
INSTAGRAM @ellerslieraces
09 354 1315 / 022 169 5443 ianb@thisismango.co.nz
TWITTER @ellerslie_races
#ellerslieraces
CLAUDIA MACDONALD 09 306 1809 / 021 932 418 claudiam@thisismango.co.nz
ellerslie.co.nz