Darley's partnership with the VRC dates back to 2004 and has been a key pillar of their support for the Victorian racing and breeding industry, which includes their Northwood Park farm near Seymour – one of seven stud farms operated by Darley worldwide.
Darley’s sponsorship of the VRC and racing at Flemington includes the $3 million Group 1 Darley Champions Sprint (1200m) on TAB Champions Stakes Day, the final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, a race that has been associated with Darley since 2014.
Among other races sponsored by Darley at Flemington are two races during the Melbourne Cup Carnival: the $200,000 Group 3 Darley Ottawa Stakes (1100m) for fillies on Kennedy Oaks Day as well as Victoria's premier early season two-year-old contest, the $200,000 Group 3 Darley Maribyrnong Plate (1000m) on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day.
The international breeding operation will also have naming rights to the $175,000 Listed Darley Maribyrnong Trial Stakes (1000m) to be run in early October 2023.
VRC Chief Executive Steve Rosich welcomed the extension of the Darley partnership.
“Darley is a world-leading breeding operation, and we thank them for their continued support of the VRC including the world-class racing program at Flemington,” Mr Rosich said.
“The Darley Champions Sprint was elevated to $3 million last year and sits proudly on our revamped TAB Champions Stakes Day program which offers an electric grand finale to the Melbourne Cup Carnival.”
Andy Makiv, head of sales for the Darley stallions, emphasised the commitment by Darley to the Australian industry.
“The Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of the world’s great carnivals and Darley feels privileged to be so heavily involved in the week not only as partners through our sponsorship of three races across three days but also as participants by way of Godolphin runners and other Darley sired runners.”
“As a global stallion brand, we have been associated with the VRC since 2004 and are delighted to sign on with Australia’s premier race club for a further three-years.”
VRC National Jockeys Trust Race Day acknowledges the amazing jockeys who bring every race to life with dedication, bravery and skill. Join us as we raise awareness and funds for the National Jockey Trust which provides a range of important support to ill or injured jockeys and their families. Tickets selling fast, don't miss out!
