Enjoy a Day at the Races – Canberra Racecourse

Canberra Racecourse is also known as thoroughbred Park to the locals. This is to distinguish it from the old track which was called Canberra Acton, which is now at the bottom of a lake. Canberra is a modern track, with a number of bars, restaurants and grandstands. The course has two main races, namely the Black Opal Stakes and the Canberra Cup. The Black Opal stakes is a lead up race to some group one races including the Golden Slipper.

Canberra Acton

Although the old track was called Acton and is no longer in play, a new rack within Thoroughbred Park has been opened and named Acton. The new track is synthetic and all weather, one of the first of its kind in Australia. This is particularly useful in Canberra as the weather often gets below freezing which can result in races being abandoned. Betting for both tracks is conducted by the same bookmakers who are available on major race days at the track. Minor race days may see some of them on site, but there will be a smaller choice in odds and options.

Black Opal Stakes

The Black opal stakes at Canberra is a set weight race for two year olds over 1200 meters. The winner’s purse is currently $275 000, and attracts horses of a high caliber. Some notable horses who have won the stakes and gone on to become elite type thoroughbreds include Takedown and Criterion. The Black Opal Stakes is a good race for punters to watch and bet on, as it often gives an idea of a youngster’s future potential. Betting on the race is offered both at the track as well as online via various sites.

Canberra Cup

The Canberra Cup is held annually in March. It is a handicap race which is run over 2000 meters. The Canberra Cup is mostly entered by local horses, with local trainers having historically more success than interstate trainers. Recently horses from Sydney have entered as well although as yet has not done anything dramatic. The Canberra Cup is held on the same day as the Black Opal Stakes as a part of the main racing carnival at the Canberra racecourse.

Betting on the Cup can be done at the track and through number of online sites. Many of the online sites also offer tips as well as bonuses and promotions for new members and existing ones.

Other Events

Canberra Racecourse or Thoroughbred Park is a family oriented complex which offers a number of activities for all ages. Betting can be done either in the grandstands, or at one of the bars at the track. There are a number of restaurants offering a variety of foods and cuisines. The atmosphere at the track is smart casual both in dress and betting.

Thoroughbred Park also hosts big screen screenings of other races around the country such as the Melbourne Cup. Bookies at the track offer NZ online betting on these races as well.