The wait is over as GERALDTON TURF CLUB in Western Australia comes alive for the season-opening meeting of 2025–26 on Wednesday, 1 October, featuring seven flat races from 10:24 AM to 1:57 PM. With the ocean breeze drifting across the track and the stands buzzing with anticipation, the new season promises fresh hopes, new stories, and plenty of action. From maiden runners chasing their first breakthrough to seasoned campaigners eyeing another victory, every race will set the tone for what’s shaping up to be another thrilling season of country racing in Geraldton.
Race 1: TABTOUCH MAIDEN (10:24am, 1113 meters)
The season begins with a lively maiden contest, where newcomers look to make their mark. BIG BOPPER, CHINESE DENTIST and SHE’SATROOPER could take charge early in search of that maiden success, while GINGERIFFIC, CELEBRITY ANGEL and ORANTORIO ROSE might prefer to stalk the pace before making a decisive move. It’s the perfect curtain-raiser to the season — full of ambition and fresh energy. Prize money: $20,000
Race 2: WESTERN RACEPIX MAIDEN (10:59am, 1413 meters)
Another maiden race follows, offering another shot for hopefuls still chasing their first win. HEZA GRUNT, BLOWIN’ SMOKE and MUST BE NICE might aim to control the tempo from the front, while DESERT MADAME, HOT JELLY SHOT and LEAD CINGA could surge late if the race opens up. The mix of determination and raw talent makes this one to watch. Prize money: $20,000
Race 3: CONGRATULATIONS BRIGADES, GNFL PREMIERS 2025 HANDICAP (11:34am, 1413 meters)
Class 2 company steps forward next, with runners looking to build consistency early in the season. TIGER LINE, BATTLE ON BATTLER and PAT’S LAST BANG will want to prove their form straight away, while CALICO’S GIRL, VIVAROK and GAV HAS SPOKEN could capitalize if the pace gets hot up front. A tactical contest that could reward patience as much as power. Prize money: $24,000
Race 4: VALE NOEL BURTON HANDICAP (12:09pm, 1213 meters)
In this Class 1 test, lightly raced horses aged 2 and up get a chance to progress and climb the grades. HEWILLDOUS, A LOT OF CLASS and TWELVEUNDER might look to dictate from the break, while WEAPONIZE, FINANCE LEGEND and MOONIEMIA could come alive in the closing stages. Expect an evenly matched battle where timing will be everything. Prize money: $24,000
Race 5: COURTNEY KEEFFE ELDERS REAL ESTATE HANDICAP (12:44pm, 1413 meters)
The fifth race brings a competitive 58+ handicap, where every stride counts. KEYTRADE, MONEY FOR OLD ROPE and PULL THE TRIGGER may hold the early advantage on form, while AMARLIE MISS, MIFF MUFFERED MOOF and NEVER SOBER could pounce if the tempo suits. A race that promises both grit and late drama as experienced hands return to the Geraldton turf. Prize money: $24,000
Race 6: THANK YOU WITTEN’S IRRIGATION & DESIGN HANDICAP (1:22pm, 1113 meters)
The day’s top-rated event unfolds next – a 70+ handicap that should draw the classiest field of the meeting. BOMBAY STYLE, UNDER INFLUENCE and OUR KIWI PRINCESS may try to assert dominance early, but TICK TOCK BOOM, SAFE HUSTLE and PRINCE RAGNAR could mount a strong chase when the pressure rises. Expect an intense stretch duel worthy of a season opener. Prize money: $24,000
Race 7: LADIES DAY SUNDAY 12TH OCTOBER HANDICAP (1:57pm, 1113 meters)
The closing race revisits the 58+ bracket, wrapping up the day with a spirited finish. THEHORSEMAN, SOUTHERN SCANDAL and BLACK SANDS might set the tone from the start, while CLEVER COMBAT, COZZIES CHOICE and MAIDMY WAY could flash home in the shadows of the post. It’s a fitting end to a day that celebrates both new beginnings and timeless competition. Prize money: $24,000
Geraldton’s season opener captures the essence of Western Australian racing — relaxed yet fiercely competitive, coastal yet commanding. As the sun shines over the track and the crowd savours the first victories of a new campaign, the day marks not just the start of another season, but a renewal of the spirit that keeps racing alive in Geraldton year after year.
Read more horse racing previews and results at RaceBuzz.