Ascot Racecourse and the Victoria Racing Club have signed a new strategic partnership this week, acknowledging the unique ties between the two “sister” tracks. The signatories are Ascot Chairman and His Majesty’s Representative, Sir Francis Brooke, and the Neil Wilson, Chairman of the Victoria Racing Club.
Both courses stage their nations’ premier flat meetings and they work together on various race planning initiatives, which have led to multiple runners in the Royal Ascot sprints from Australia and numerous runners in the Melbourne Cup and other feature races at Flemington from the UK.
The Melbourne Cup Tour in 2024 will come through Ascot for QIPCO King George Weekend (26th and 27th July) and the Qatar Goodwood Festival (30th July to 3rd August) next month and racegoers will get the chance to be photographed with the famous three-handled cup.
Sir Francis Brooke, Chairman and His Majesty’s Representative at Ascot Racecourse, said: “For many years we have worked with the VRC on membership reciprocals and race planning initiatives and this important alliance formalises the links between Flemington and Ascot. We will develop this strategic alliance further in coming years and are delighted to welcome the VRC Chairman, Neil Wilson, and his wife, Stephanie, to Royal Ascot today.”
Neil Wilson, Victoria Racing Club Chairman, said: “At the start of one of the world’s most prestigious racing events, we are pleased to continue the official partnership between the Victoria Racing Club and Ascot. First signed in 2006, our international alliance has contributed to the successful evolution of thoroughbred racing as a truly global sport. It has also seen both organisations share valuable strategic and operational information, generate exclusive digital content through our joint ownership of World Horse Racing, and deliver reciprocal privileges for our respective members to enjoy.
“This year more than 300 VRC members have taken advantage of the alliance and purchased tickets to the Royal Meeting to celebrate the best in racing, fashion, food and entertainment.
“The VRC looks forward to bringing the Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy to the Group 1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth QIPCO Stakes at Ascot Racecourse in July as part of the Cup’s international tour, and welcoming Ascot members to Flemington Racecourse for this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival.”
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