The Mercedes-Benz Black Opal Stakes is back for its 44th year of race-day action and track-side glitz and glamour. Earning its place at the pinnacle of Canberra’s Autumn events calendar, The Black Opal Stakes is set to impress on Sunday 6 March 2016.

This year the race-day program will include: the $275,000 Mercedes-Benz Canberra Black Opal Stakes, the $200,000 tab.com.au Canberra Cup, $125,000 National Sprint and the $125,000 Canberra Guineas.

Along with the racing there will be plenty of activity off-course with live entertainment, food stalls and the Myer Fashions on the Field competition. For all of you who enjoy your decorative race day head wear this year the Millinery competition will be a stand alone category between the Men and Women heats throughout the afternoon. See Canberra’s best-dressed strut their stuff for over $8000 in prizes – including cash, Myer gift cards and more.

This year, Thoroughbred Park presents a new range of track-side events, and the 2016 Black Opal has something for everyone! Experience luxury with the new Wolf Blass Deck Marquee. Sip on cocktails, indulge in gourmet canapés and celebrate your winnings on the deck overlooking the mounting yard and Winning Post. Or mingle with Canberra’s finest at the very popular Catbird Land and Picnic Place. But, make sure to book your place soon because bookings for marquees close 19 February.

If you plan on bringing the kids along, let them run wild on the jumping castle, or get their face painted.

As always, enjoy a delicious range of the flavours on offer at Food Alley. Between races rock out live music from a number of amazing performers including Big Boss Groove, Guitar Cases and DJ Felix.

If you don’t want to battle the traffic to find a car park, you’re in luck, this year Action Buses have teamed up with Thoroughbred Park to provide free bus travel from any service in Canberra to and from the course. All you have to do is show your pre-purchased Black Opal stakes ticket to the driver.

There is so much happening this year at the Mercedes-Benz Black Opal Stakes. Make sure you don’t miss out! Why not skip the race-day queue by purchase your tickets today? Online tickets are available through Ticketek with staged ticketing on sale for just $15 for adults until 15 February. Seniors are $5 and children under 18 are free.

We hope you back a winner!