Magic Millions has unveiled a blueprint that will see significant prizemoney increases and new races added to a series that will take in night racing on the Gold Coast from next year.
Less than a week out from this year’s $10 million raceday, Magic Millions revealed its two flagship events will each receive increases of $1m from next year and a $3m feature has been planned for a new meeting that will be run under lights.
The 2YO Classic and 3YO Guineas will both be run for $3 million from next year with total prizemoney for the feature raceday to rise to $14.25m next year and $14.75m in 2025.
The 2025 raceday will be preceded by a $5.25m six-race Friday night meeting that will be headlined by a new $3 million slot race for three-year-old sprinters over 1100m.
The Gold Coast will be hosting night racing by May next year with a $1 million Magic Millions National 2YO Classic (1000m) to be run under lights, coinciding with the National Weanling, Broodmare and Yearling Sales.
“The Gold Coast Turf Club has solidified its position as one of the state’s most important training and racing facilities on the back of the $63 million upgrade that is presently underway, and that redevelopment has been a catalyst for the introduction of these program expansions,” RQ Chairman Steve Wilson AM said.
Along with the new $3m race and increases for existing features, Magic Millions will add a second $250,000 maiden and add prizemoney to Magic Millions races already conducted in Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.
“Thoroughbred industry sustainability is strengthened by delivering wide-reaching prizemoney opportunities to all racing participants,” Magic Millions co-owner Katie Page-Harvey said.
“Whether you are a syndicate member, a first-time owner, live in the country or the city, everyone should be able to qualify for prize money returns from Magic Millions races.
“Today’s announcement from Magic Millions and Racing Queensland creates and builds those compelling opportunities through the introduction of new races, prize money increases and greater options for participation.”