Racing Victoria (RV) and the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) have jointly announced adjustments to the Super Saturday meeting at Flemington due to anticipated hot weather conditions.
In response to the Bureau of Meteorology's forecast of a late afternoon temperature of 39 degrees at Flemington, the eight-race event will kick off earlier, starting at 10.45am AEDT and concluding at 2.30pm AEDT.
The revised race schedule is as follows:
Race 1: 10.45am
Race 2: 11.15am
Race 3: 11.45am
Race 4: 12.15pm
Race 5: 12.45pm (Group 1 Newmarket Handicap)
Race 6: 1.20pm
Race 7: 1.55pm
Race 8: 2.30pm
The decision to advance the starting time is rooted in the well-being of horses and participants, invoking RV's Racing in Hot Weather Policy.
Adjustments have also been made to on-course protocols, with the arrival time reduced to 60 minutes for horses in Races 1 and 2 and 90 minutes for those in Races 3 to 8 (down from two and three hours, respectively). Additionally, the pre-race parade time has been shortened.
To address the heat, misting fans will be strategically placed to spray cold water on horses in designated areas, including the float car park and pre-parade ring. Extra personnel will be present around the Mounting Yard to aid in hosing and sponging horses post-race.
In consideration of the weather conditions, dress regulations in the members' enclosure have been temporarily amended for the day, allowing for optional jackets and ties. It's important to note that this adjustment is specific to this Saturday and does not signify a permanent change in the dress code policy.