Imagine standing where, in 1833, NSW Governor Richard Bourke designated this land for a racecourse. This is Randwick Racecourse. Before Randwick, Hyde Park in Sydney’s CBD was the main venue. But racing’s popularity demanded a dedicated space.
Randwick’s first race was a private event in June 1833. It was initially known as the Sandy Course. The ground conditions weren’t ideal. By 1840, racing stopped. The course was then only used for training.
The Australian Jockey Club formed in the early 1840s. In 1860, they moved their headquarters to Randwick. Racing resumed in May 1860. Around 6,000 people attended.
In 1863, the land was officially granted to the AJC. They held it until 2011. The AJC and Sydney Turf Club merged. This formed the Australian Turf Club. The ATC now operates Royal Randwick Racecourse.
Now, let’s talk about its royal title. On 22 February 1992, Queen Elizabeth II visited Randwick Racecourse. She opened the Paddock Stand that day. The Queen granted permission to call the venue Royal Randwick.
Royal Randwick has hosted significant races over the years. The Australian Derby has run since 1861. The Doncaster Handicap is another famous race. And of course, The Everest.
The Everest began in 2017. It is the richest race in Australia. It is the richest turf race globally. The prize money is fifteen million dollars.
Since 2014, Randwick has hosted The Championships. This is a two-day season-ending meeting in April. It offers over AUD$20 million in prize money.
Randwick Racecourse is not just about horse racing. It has hosted concerts and religious masses. Pope Paul VI celebrated mass here in 1970. Pope John Paul II held a mass in 1995. This was for the beatification of Mary MacKillop. Randwick also hosted World Youth Day in 2008.
Many structures have graced Randwick over the years. The Queen Elizabeth II Grandstand stands today. It was rebuilt in 2013. The Official Members Stand dates back to 1886. The Theatre of the Horse is a modern addition. It allows for the presentation of horses before and after races. The Saddling Paddock Tote Building from 1917 now serves as an event space and bar.
Royal Randwick Racecourse has a rich history. It continues to be a premier racing venue. It is also a place for community events. It has evolved. But it remains an important part of Sydney. Its legacy lives on.