Manikato Stakes

Winners and Past Results

Melbourne's horse racing tracks witnesses the best contenders face off in numerous black type races throughout the year, which includes the Group 1 Manikato Stakes hosted by Moonee Valley Racing Club at Moonee Valley Racecourse. The 1200 metre weight for age race in held in September during the spring racing carnival. Free $200 Bet

The race was known as the Freeway Stakes between 1968 and 1983 after which it has been held in honour of one of Australia 's finest and most loved Thoroughbred horses, Manikato who finished with a career best of 29 wins and 13 places from just 47 starts. Manikato's numerous victories included two Freeway Stakes in 1979 and 1982.

The best sprinters compete over 1200 metres for prize money worth half a million dollars. Manikato also posted five consecutive wins in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes between 1979 and 1983.

The Manikato Stakes is held on the same day as the Group 2 Bill Stutt Stakes for three year old horses. Most often the race is usually bagged by a better sprinter who can take advantage of the level weights. Horses that compete in the Manikato Stakes ought to be followed closely for the rest of the season. The race has produced several WS Cox Plate winners while many have gone on to win or place well in numerous group races. Strawberry Road, Rubiton, Dane Ripper, and Sunline in 2000-01 are some of the classy gallopers to win a Manikato Stakes/Cox Plate double.

Horses may tackle several group races after the event. The Group 2 Gilgai Stakes at Flemington, the Group 2 Schweppes Stakes at Moonee Valley , and the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield in autumn are among the many events that the connections of top performers may fancy. In 2010, Hay List won the Manikato Stakes/Gilgai Stakes double. Sepoy, winner in 2011, came into the race after a victory in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington and continued his fine form to win the Group 2 Caulfield Sprint at Caulfield and Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes at Flemington. Some horses may enter the Group 1Patinack Farm Classic, Group 2 Schillaci Stakes and Salinger Stakes as well.

The Group 3 Ian McEwen Stakes and Group 2 Danehill Stakes may serve as a form guide leading up to the Manikato Stakes. Hay List won the McEwen Stakes/Manikato Stakes double in 2010. Spinning Hill in 2002-03 and Spark Of Life in 2004-05 are among the recent horses to win back to back victories. Other formidable sprinters to win include Miss Andretti in 2006 and Danleigh in 2009.