CANBERRA Racing Club is celebrating the upgrade of the Seppelt Black Opal Stakes from a Listed race to Group 3 status by the Australian Racing Board.

“The upgrade of the Black Opal to Group Three status is a deserved recognition of the very high quality of Canberra’s most famous race. Over many years the Black Opal attracts young horses that go on to become the stars of the Australian turf. Canberra is justly proud of the Black Opal and the Canberra Racing Club will continue to work to bring top quality racing to the ACT,” said Chair of the Canberra Racing Club Dr Chris Ward.

“The announcement of the upgrade of the Black Opal Stakes to Group 3 status is very satisfying as it is a culmination of strategic planning, implementation and commitment by the Staff of the Club to achieve this result. These outcomes don’t just happen, the planning process includes assessing the risks brought through major change, followed up by implementation marketing and having the supporting infrastructure of the venue including facilities and a top level race track,” said Club CEO Peter Stubbs.

Next years’ Seppelt Black Opal Stakes race meeting will be held on Sunday 8 March 2015.

[Photo: Epaulette winning the 2012 Black Opal Stakes – his performance has been a significant contribution to the upgrade of the Black Opal Stakes]