For Immediate Release
5 March 2010
NEW ZEALAND’S RICHEST RACE IS READY TO RUN
The fillies are favourites as Telecom Derby Day kicks off Auckland’s Biggest Party

This Saturday 6 March, Ellerslie Racecourse will be awash with colour as Auckland’s biggest party kicks off in million dollar style.

Featuring the $2.2 million Telecom New Zealand Derby, New Zealand’s richest race and the richest Derby in the Southern Hemisphere, the anticipation is building for one of the most exciting showdowns in Derby history.

The favourite for the big race this year is a filly, the Mark Walker-trained Zarzuela, however the odds are stacked against her – the last filly to win the New Zealand Derby was Popsy back in 1993 and Zarzuela has also drawn a wide barrier.

A favourable draw for VRC Derby-winning colt Monaco Consul, part-owned by Owen Glenn, has seen his odds shorten during the week.

Auckland Racing Club CEO Chris Weaver is looking forward to a Telecom Derby Day to remember.

“After five years, this is the most complete day of entertainment we’ve had on offer at Ellerslie. Across the course there’s a huge amount happening, we’ve got Mercedes Prix de Fashion, the national fashions in the field final with a huge $100,000 prize package on offer. We’ve got The Black Seeds entertaining a relaxed crowd in the infield at the Telecom Carnival and of course all the glitz and glamour of Cuvée Bar & Lawn, the Ascot Stand and the numerous corporate marquees.

“Add to this New Zealand’s best three-year-old thoroughbred talent and a bona fide ’battle of the sexes’ in the Telecom New Zealand Derby and there truly is something for everyone”.

The Telecom Carnival will feature musical entertainment from The Black Seeds alongside People of Paris and Tim Phin, numerous food and beverage stalls, and fun for all with games of giant Jenga, Pick-up Sticks and much more.

This area offers a stylish yet relaxed twist to the traditional celebration of Telecom Derby Day.

Entries for Mercedes Prix de Fashion are open on the day between 10.30am and 12.15pm with a $100,000 first prize package up for grabs that includes a Mercedes-Benz CLC 200K Coupe as well as a number of other luxury prizes.

The action continues at Ellerslie on Wednesday 10 March with Stella Artois Auckland Cup Day. Featuring Auckland’s own iconic race, the $1 million Stella Artois Auckland Cup, it’s the perfect excuse for a half-day off!

Auckland Cup Week at Ellerslie culminates on Saturday 13 March with SKYCITY Diamond Day, it’s Ladies’ Day and the perfect way to celebrate the end of the week with a glamorous twist!

For tickets and hospitality options visit www.aucklandcupweek.co.nz or for more information on the Telecom Carnival www.telecomcarnival.co.nz

ENDS

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