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Newcastle Jockey Club’s feature autumn race, the Group 3 Newcastle Newmarket Handicap has a name change and a prizemoney boost in time for its 3rd March running.

In another move to continue the club’s charter to become a more modern and progressive club, the Group 3 feature will now be simply known as the ‘Newcastle Stakes’.

“We certainly value and recognise the racing history at Newcastle Racecourse but it was time to modify this race name in order to better connect with our city and the Newcastle Stakes fits that bill,” said NJC’s Chief Executive, Duane Dowell.

“Thanks to Racing NSW there is also a prizemoney boost to $200,000 which will assist in keeping this time-honoured race in the sights of some of the best horses as they progress through the Autumn Carnival.”

First run in 1955, the Newcastle Newmarket was run over 1400m attracting fields that often feature leading contenders for the Doncaster Mile at the Sydney Autumn Carnival. Previous winners include Secret Savings, Platinum Scissors, Bezeal Bay, Patezza and the people’s champ Happy Clapper.

Kris Lees has won the last four editions of the race with Princess Posh, Special Reward, Gem Song and last year’s winner Wandabaa.

In a further boost, Horsepower Feeds and Supplements have continued their sponsorship of the ‘Newcastle Stakes’ in what is their second year partnering with the NJC.

Horsepower National Sales Manager, Greg Murphy said he was very excited to be partnering with the Newcastle Jockey Club again in 2023.

“Horsepower is delighted to continue its partnership with Newcastle Jockey Club who are very much seen as a progressive race club in NSW and within the racing industry.”

The 2yo race on the same day (previously The Beaumont Handicap) will also see a name change recognising legendary trainer Paul Perry.

“Paul was not only best known for his trailblazing achievements at Royal Ascot with Choisir but is also a very good trainer of two-year-olds including 2005 Golden Slipper winner Stratum,” Dowell added.

“The race is a good fit recognising one of Newcastle’s most successful trainers. The newly named Paul Perry 2yo Handicap (1300m) sits nicely in the scheduling of 2yo races in the autumn and will likely continue to unearth young stars of the track.”

The day will also host the annual International Women’s Day Luncheon in the Trackside Marquee, an event that raises significant funds for local charities each year. Tickets are on sale now and are selling fast.