The Ellerslie race-days I never miss…
This article was published by ellerslie.co.nz
If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we should never take our normal freedoms for granted. That’s why, this race season, I’m taking a moment to take stock and show gratitude. Gratitude for being able to enjoy the best thoroughbred racing the country has to offer; trackside, in real life, and among crowds of like-minded enthusiasts.
My first step in doing so is to reflect on what has been, and look forward to things to come, by listing my absolute favourite Ellerslie race-days, which I simply cannot wait to attend.
Karaka Million
Look, I don’t miss any of the race days on the Ellerslie calendar. However, there is one race day that I wouldn’t miss for anything short of a global pandemic, and that’s the Karaka Million.
This is a staple on the social calendar for industry buffs, and it’s a great opportunity for those less experienced in the world of racing to brush shoulders with some of the industry's elite. Think of it like a day at the polo, only bigger, louder, more glamorous and staged beneath the setting sun. Top that all off with an unmissable firework display and you have the best entertainment Auckland summer has to offer.
Twilight Races
I like to refer to the Twilight Races as ‘opening night’. It’s the first truly epic fixture on my social calendar before the summer kicks off, and the atmosphere is justifiably electric.
The exhilaration of watching some of the most gorgeous horses compete, and the chance to break out the best of summer fashion are just a few reasons the Twilight Summer Night is such a highlight. And believe me when I say this is an evening of sport, fun, and entertainment to suit all budgets, with tickets starting for as little as $10 for those of you who get in early.
Boxing Day
If you’re still hungry for more, the party doesn’t stop there. There’s plenty more trackside fun to be had with the Christmas Carnival! The Boxing Day races is probably the most iconic date on New Zealand’s racing calendar, with over 160 years of rich history behind it. Some of the greatest racehorses have graced the track, and some of the greatest fashion ensembles have graced the grounds. Be part of the history, with a range of attractive hospitality options to suit everyone!
Vodafone Derby Day
If you’re a fashion enthusiast, then you’ll want to get Auckland Cup Week in your diaries ASAP. World-class horses running for valuable purses aside, there is some of the finest trackside fashion on display.
If you haven’t had a chance to put your best hoof forward, Vodafone Derby Day may be your time to shine. The black and white outfit brief brings an air of timeless elegance to any look, and Derby Day attendees prove time and time again that the monochrome theme needn’t be monotonous.
Recently, and rightfully so, these race day tickets have become notoriously hard to come by, with an across the board sell-out last season. It’s not one to roll the dice on, make sure you keep a watchful eye on Ellerslie’s social pages to stay up to date with on-sale dates!
The fact of the matter is, it really is hard to go wrong when it comes to Ellerslie’s mainstay racing meets. And, upon further reflection, I’ve decided I’ll (once again) attend every single one.
Secure your tickets here.