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Thoroughbred Park

Exciting additions to Centenary Canberra Cup celebrations

The Canberra Racing Club is excited to debut several exciting additions to John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Race Day on Sunday, 8 March as the Club celebrates the 100th anniversary of the TAB Canberra Cup. 

For the first time, fans will experience the Black Opal Stakes and Canberra Cup from above, with a special drone to capture the scale and speed of the spectacle like never before. 

Canberra Racing Club Chief Executive Darren Pearce said, “The addition of the drove coverage will further elevate the Sky Racing broadcast and is a timely inclusion as fans celebrate the 100th anniversary of the TAB Canberra Cup.”

“The integration of drone technology reflects the Club’s commitment to innovation and delivering a world-class experience for fans and participants alike.”

“This will showcase our venue, precinct and City to racing fans like never before.”

The Sky Racing Broadcast beams Canberra racing to 46 countries and into over 3,800 venues throughout Australia. 

Thoroughbred Park will also be home to an after-the-last performance in the Mounting Yard by The Voice Finalist Robbie Dolan.

Dolan who is also a Melbourne Cup & TAB Canberra Cup winning Jockey will cap off Centenary Cup celebrations with members and punters able to access the Mounting Yard freely once horses have safely left the yard. 

“We want all of our racegoers to leave this race day with memories that will last another century.” Pearce said. 

“Robbie is a wonderful performer and to enjoy the experience up close and in the Mounting Yard is something we’ve never tried before, we think it’s going to be a smash.”

Celebrations for the Centenary Canberra Cup continue throughout this week with the Carbine Club of the ACT Racing Lunch to host Gai Waterhouse on Thursday, 5 March while Centenary Canberra Cup ambassador Bjorn Baker will headline the Black Opal Cocktail Party on Friday, 6 March.

Celebrations will culminate on John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Race Day with tickets available via Oztix.