The Australian Racing Hall of Fame is an institution that recognizes and celebrates the achievements of notable racehorses, jockeys, trainers, and other influential figures in the Australian horse racing industry.

It was established to honour individuals and horses who have made significant contributions to Australian racing through their exceptional performances, records, or contributions to the sport.

Key aspects of the Australian Racing Hall of Fame include:

Inductees: The Hall of Fame includes inductees from various categories, such as horses, jockeys, trainers, and associates (which may include breeders, owners, administrators, etc.)

Criteria: Induction into the Hall of Fame is based on a nominee’s outstanding achievements, impact on the sport, and legacy within the Australian racing community.

Selection Process: Candidates are nominated and selected by a panel of experts, which may include racing historians, journalists, and industry professionals. The selection process considers factors such as racing performance, records, championships won, and overall influence on the sport.

Recognition: Inductees are honored with a formal induction ceremony, often held annually, where their achievements and contributions are celebrated. Their names and accomplishments are permanently enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

Education and Preservation: The Hall of Fame serves as an educational resource, preserving the history and heritage of Australian horse racing. It helps to promote and commemorate the achievements of legendary figures and the cultural significance of the sport.

The Australian Racing Hall of Fame plays a vital role in showcasing the rich history and tradition of horse racing in Australia and serves as a tribute to the extraordinary individuals and horses who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

We are so proud that the wonderful Miss Andretti was inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2023! A fantastic moment for Sean Buckley and all at Ultra Racing!

May 13, 2024

What is the Cox Plate?

2024

The Cox Plate holds significant importance in Australian horse racing for many reasons including:

Prestige and Tradition: The Cox Plate is one of the most prestigious races in Australia and is steeped in tradition. It has a rich history dating back to 1922 and has consistently attracted top-quality fields of horses over the years.

Weight-for-Age Championship: The Cox Plate is regarded as the weight-for-age championship of Australasia. This means that horses of different ages carry different weights based on their age and sex. It’s considered a true test of a horse’s ability under these conditions.

Competitiveness and Field Quality: The race consistently attracts the best horses from Australia and around the world. The competitive nature of the Cox Plate ensures that only the top performers in the sport typically contest the race, making it a thrilling and high-stakes event.

Timing and Location: The Cox Plate is held in October each year at Moonee Valley Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria. This timing places it strategically in the Australian racing calendar, following other major spring racing events like the Caulfield Cup and leading up to the Melbourne Cup Carnival. It’s a focal point of the spring racing season.

Impact on Breeding and Racing Careers: Winning the Cox Plate is a prestigious achievement that can significantly enhance a horse’s value as a breeding prospect. It can also elevate a horse’s racing career by solidifying its reputation as one of the best in the sport.

Historical Significance: Many legendary horses have won the Cox Plate, adding to its historical significance. Names like Phar Lap, Kingston Town, Shamus Award, and more recently, Winx, have left an indelible mark on the race and contributed to its enduring legacy.

Cultural Importance: The Cox Plate holds a special place in Australian sporting culture. It attracts attention not only from racing enthusiasts but also from the general public, drawing crowds and media coverage that highlight its significance within the broader community.

Overall, the combination of tradition, competitiveness, quality of competition, and historical significance has firmly established the Cox Plate as a cornerstone of Australian horse racing, making it a must-watch event for fans and participants alike.

April 24, 2024

Balastier

Balastier is a thoroughbred horse born in Australia in 2021.

Balastier is by Brazen Beau (AUS) out of See Me Exceed (AUS) , trained by Tony Gollan.

He won his most recent race on the 24th April 2024 in Ipswich, Queensland.

April 23, 2024

Miss Andretti – A History:

2024

Miss Andretti is a legendary Australian racehorse known for her exceptional speed and numerous victories on the track.

Born in 2001, Miss Andretti was a bay mare bred in Western Australia. She was trained by Lee Freedman and later by David A. Hayes during her racing career.

Miss Andretti’s notable wins include:

The Lightning Stakes (now Black Caviar Lightning): Miss Andretti won the Lightning Stakes, a Group 1 sprint race held at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Australia, in 2005 and 2007.
The Newmarket Handicap: She triumphed in the Newmarket Handicap, another prestigious Group 1 sprint race held at Flemington Racecourse, in 2007.
The Manikato Stakes: Miss Andretti won the Manikato Stakes, a Group 1 sprint race held at Moonee Valley Racecourse in Melbourne, in 2006.
The King’s Stand Stakes: One of her most notable international victories came in the King’s Stand Stakes, a Group 1 race held at Royal Ascot in England, in 2007. This win showcased her remarkable speed and talent on the global stage.

Miss Andretti was named Australian Racehorse of the Year in 2007. This recognition came after her notable performances on the track, including victories in prestigious races like the Lightning Stakes, Newmarket Handicap, and King’s Stand Stakes.

Her exceptional speed and versatility as a sprinter made her a standout in Australian racing during that year, leading to her being honored with the prestigious title of Australian Racehorse of the Year.

She became one of the most beloved and successful racehorses in Australian racing history and a favourite of owner Sean Buckley.

After retiring from racing, Miss Andretti enjoyed a well-deserved retirement.

April 10, 2024

Captain Envious wins Group 3 Easter Cup at Caulfield

Captain Envious added the Group 3 Easter Cup (2000m) at Caulfield on 6th April 2024 to his victory in the Listed Ballarat Cup (2000m) at the end of last spring.

Bursting through a narrow gap, Captain Envious ($26) with Thomas Stockdale aboard, defeated Jennilala ($7.50) by a half-neck with Deny Knowledge ($16) a short-half-head away third.

Captain Envious was racing third-up from a break on Saturday having finished out of the placings in tougher races in his first two runs back.

sean buckley ultra racing captain envious2

Stockdale said Captain Envious showed a lot of courage to get through late in the contest and register a narrow win.

“It was tight, and I had both horses coming in on me, so full credit to him to get through that hole and win the race,” Stockdale said.

“He took a long time to pull up, so I think he’s going to be suited getting out over further.

“I think he can go on with it now and he enjoyed the fast tempo that was on today, being able to camp off it and being produced late.

“He was gutsy, he was tough, and he had a bit of a blow, so he will come on.

“I think there are bigger things in store for him and it’s great to get a Stakes winner for the Preusker team who have been great supporters of mine over the last 12 or so months.”

Well done to all the team!