The Australian Turf Club rolls into the heart of summer with the Royal Randwick Boxing Day meeting, launching a busy festive stretch that remains a cornerstone of Sydney’s racing calendar. Long regarded as one of the city’s most popular racedays, the Boxing Day fixture again brings together quality racing, strong crowds and a relaxed holiday atmosphere at headquarters.
Friday’s eight-race program is highlighted by the Group 3 $250,000 Yulong Summer Cup, a race that has become a reliable mid-summer test for seasoned performers. As part of the wider Summer Festival of Racing, the contest anchors a card designed to appeal to both devoted followers of the sport and families enjoying a day out during the holiday break.
The action at Royal Randwick does not pause after Boxing Day. A 10-race meeting follows on Saturday, maintaining momentum before attention shifts to Canterbury Park on New Year’s Day. That twilight meeting features the Listed $200,000 Canterbury Sprint and offers a different rhythm to conclude the festive period, with free entry and a family-friendly setting welcoming the new year.
Crowds are expected to be among the largest of the season for the Royal Randwick Boxing Day meeting, which has developed a distinct character in recent years. The day is now known for its vibrant mix of local racegoers and international visitors, creating an atmosphere that feels both traditional and contemporary.
Australian Turf Club interim chief executive Steve McMahon said the festive period placed extra focus on creating an enjoyable experience for members and visitors alike. He noted that Boxing Day at Royal Randwick has evolved into a cultural celebration as much as a sporting one, while the follow-up meetings ensure racing remains central to holiday plans across Sydney.
Racegoers will have multiple opportunities to engage with the sport across the three meetings. Gates at Royal Randwick open at midday for members on Boxing Day, with the first race scheduled for 1.35pm. Saturday’s meeting begins earlier, while Canterbury Park opens its doors in the afternoon on New Year’s Day, setting the stage for a relaxed conclusion to the festive program.
Royal Randwick Boxing Day Meeting Schedule and What Follows
The Royal Randwick Boxing Day meeting marks the beginning of a demanding but rewarding week for participants, with staff and horsemen working through the holiday period to deliver a seamless program. Saturday’s extended card at Randwick adds depth to the week, while Canterbury Park provides a contrasting venue and atmosphere to welcome 2026.
Full fields for the Boxing Day and Saturday meetings have been confirmed, ensuring competitive racing across a range of distances and classes. Together, the three fixtures underline the Australian Turf Club’s commitment to keeping racing accessible, engaging and central to Sydney’s summer traditions.
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