Where To Bet on Perth Cup

Race Details:

Date: 2026.01.01
Grade: 2
Open To: Horses Aged Three Years and Older
Track: Turf
Length: 2,400 Metres
Location: Ascot Racecourse, Western Australia


The Perth Cup is one of the biggest horse races of the year in Australia and takes place at the start of each New Year.

The race, which is a Perth Racing Group 2 Thoroughbred event run under quality handicap conditions, is held at Ascot Racecourse. Ascot is a left-handed turf track over 2,400 meters.

The race is open to horses aged three years and older and offers a total purse of $500,000 AUD.


2025 Winner:

Hemlock Stone
Jockey: Patrick Carbery
Trainer: Grant & Alana Williams


History:

The Perth Cup was first run in 1887 and is sponsored by TabTouch. The event is a major fixture in Western Australia's racing and social calendar. The 2008 edition was marred by a serious crash that caused the injury of multiple jockeys and the deaths of two horses.


Betting Odds & Tips:

The Perth Cup draws strong betting interest every New Year. Common wagers include Win, Place, Each-Way, Exacta, and Trifecta.

Track condition (the Going) at Ascot is often firm in January, favoring horses with proven stamina and consistency over 2,400 meters.

Trainers such as Grant and Alana Williams frequently enter competitive runners, while local jockey experience is often a key advantage.

Punters also monitor weight allocations closely, as the race's handicap format can create betting value for well-rated stayers. Hemlock Stone's 2025 win at moderate odds reinforced how open this race can be each year.


Fun Fact:

Before 2008, the Perth Cup was run over 3,200 meters, making the modern 2,400-meter format a significant distance reduction that shifted the race from a true stamina test to a more tactical staying event.


Key Takeaways:

- The Perth Cup is one of Western Australia's premier horse racing events, kicking off each New Year in style.
- Stamina, track familiarity, and weight assignments are crucial factors for success.
- The race provides excellent betting opportunities and remains a highlight of the Australian summer racing calendar.


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