John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Day
A once-in-a-century celebration!
Sunday of the Canberra Day long-weekend, Black Opal Stakes Day brings together elite racing, high fashion, and the ultimate trackside celebration.
Canberra's biggest Race Day just got bigger! We're celebrating the 100th anniversary of the TAB Canberra Cup in 2026.
- Centenary Canberra Cup – a once-in-100-years celebration
- Fashion on the Field
- 9-race Black Opal program featuring Australia’s rising stars in the Group 3 John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes
- DJs & live entertainment to keep the party rolling
- Premium food vans, bars & trackside experiences
- Exclusive giveaways and centenary surprises
John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Day is the social event of Autumn — a spectacular celebration of racing, style and Canberra’s vibrant community.
Race Day Packages
Centenary Canberra Cup Caps Promotion
Your chance to be a "Centenary Canberra Cup Day Owner" and share in $5,000 cash!
Purchase one of the 100 limited edition Centenary Canberra Cup Caps and your into the draw to share in the cash.
Each Cap Owner will receive:
- Limited edition numbered Centenary Canberra Cup Cap
- A ticket to the 2026 Black Opal Cocktail Party
- An entry into the Draw to become a Centenary Canberra Cup Day Owner
The draw will take place at the Black Opal Cocktail Party on Friday, 6 March 2026.
The number of winners will correspond to the number of runners in the TAB Canberra Cup race on Sunday, 8 March 2026, with each winner to receive:
- Access to a special Race Day experience, including opportunities to meet the trainer and jockey of their allocated horse (subject to operational availability)
- 3 Owners Passes on John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Race Day on Sunday, 8 March
- A chance to race for real cash
The draw will take place at the Black Opal Cocktail Party on Friday, 6 March 2026.
The number of winners will correspond to the number of runners in the TAB Canberra Cup race on Sunday, 8 March 2026.
The winning Owner will receive $3,500 cash, 2nd will receive $1500 and 3rd $500.
Cap number preferences can be made in the additional comments box during the purchasing process. Cap numbers will be provided on a first come, first served basis and CRC provides no guarantee that number preferences will be met.