Hosted by the Victorian Racing Club (VRC) on the highly respected “Super Saturday” at the stunning Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne the VRC Sires Produce Stakes forms part of the illustrious Melbourne Racing Carnival. The Group 2 event is raced over 1,400 metres by two-year-olds under set-weight conditions. Taking place in March, the VRC Sires Produce Stakes runs alongside the Newmarket Handicap, Australian Cup and the Australian Guineas to make up the ultimate race day, and offers its entrants prize money of $300,000. A good race to check on entrant form in the lead-up to the VRC Sires Produce Stakes is the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes held a few weeks prior at the Caulfield Racecourse.
History
The VRC Sires Produce Stakes was first raced in 1862 over one mile and saw Musidora cross the line first. In 1864 the race became a six furlong event, and remained as such for 55 years until it became seven furlongs in 1920 which now converts to 1400m. For seven years, between 1866 and 1873, the VRC Produce Stakes was not held.
The race has changed names a few times over the years and was initially known as the Flemington Stakes. In 1868 it was the Sapling Stakes, and then in 1873 the Ascot Vale Stakes.
VRC Sires Produce Stakes Winners
Race Information
When – March
Where – Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne
Distance – 1400 metres
Status – Group 2
Race Type – 2YO Set Weights
Stakes – $300 000
