Samantha Harris shares her tips for the Autumn Racing Carnival
Model Samantha Harris is the new face of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival. Find out what she thinks punters should be wearing this year.
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Spring is synonymous with horse racing in Sydney. But despite the balmy weather and off-season flower bloom, autumn brings its own unique flavour at this year’s Autumn Racing Carnival, offering sumptuous dining experiences, fashion trends and record prizemoney.
Tracing its roots back to 1866, the event stands shoulder to shoulder with the popular spring carnival, drawing in younger crowds each year, says Yael Bradbury, the Australian Turf Club’s general manager of marketing. And they’re coming out in droves – to see and be seen, to punt and to hunt.
“A day at the races embodies the spirit of Sydney, offering a blend of excitement and elegance where racegoers can experience a multitude of touch points all within our venue,” Bradbury says. “In autumn, Royal Randwick is the nation’s best destination for Group 1 horse racing.”
The Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival, which kicked off on March 16, follows last year’s record-breaking Everest Carnival, demonstrating an exciting return to live events.
The excitement continues with day two of The Star Championships this Saturday, followed by the Schweppes All Aged Stakes Day on April 20, concluding the racing season.
“Autumn at the races isn’t just different; it’s daringly distinctive,” Bradbury says. “While spring flaunts its floral finery, autumn offers an opulent palette for fashion connoisseurs, with rich textures and vibrant layers.
“Our culinary prowess mirrors this change, with menus that celebrate the season’s produce. Beyond the thrill of racing, we’ve evolved into a culinary and entertainment hub, where a ‘simple’ day at the races delivers an unmatched experience. We are the only dining destination in town where you can enjoy a very long lunch (six hours) with a group of friends in one of our great restaurants.”
Punters can enjoy pop-up bars and treat their tastebuds with exciting street food vendors or head on to The Smokehouse to sample celebrity chef Hayden Quinn’s pulled pork burgers.
Fashionistas can indulge in a complimentary hair and makeup touch-up on arrival with a free glass of Chandon in the Pamper Pavilion.
Among the attendees is Samantha Harris, Australia’s first Indigenous supermodel and friend of the ATC.
Since launching her career almost two decades ago, Harris, who is a descendant of the Dunghutti tribe, has graced the covers of countless magazines, including Vogue.
And she is a goodwill ambassador for World Vision and WWF Australia.
“These charities are really important to me because I love giving back and raising awareness for different causes,” Harris says. “I will continue to support them as long as I can.
“I feel proud to be representing my culture in the fashion industry and within the racing community. Seeing everyone come together from all walks of life and backgrounds is what autumn racing is all about.”
While the fashion inspiration varies between the two race days, Harris suggests visitors take a lightweight trench or overcoat in case the weather turns. And “wedges are essential because they are comfier and more practical than heels”.
A day that is renowned for its feature race is the Queen Elizabeth Stakes (The Star Championships Day 2) at Royal Randwick, with record prizemoney of $4m.
It offers a full race card including three other Group 1 races – the $2m Schweppes Sydney Cup, $1m The Star Australian Oaks and $1m Grainshaker Vodka Queen of the Turf Stakes.
The grand finale is the Schweppes All Aged Stakes Day, also at Randwick.
The WINX Stand is open to all, offering rooftop views, stylish bars and live entertainment.
There will be a free performance after the last by Hot Dub Time Machine.
Tickets include free travel via trains, buses, light rail and ferries to the track.
“With cost of living top of everyone’s mind, we are committed to continuing to offer a range of value and choice ticketing experiences starting from just $20,” Bradbury says.
For more information, visit australianturfclub.com.au
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