More than 11,000 revellers are poised to welcome the new year in style at Ascot Racecourse for the running of the prestigious $1 million TABtouch Perth Cup this Wednesday.
A Scorching Start to the New Year
The iconic West Australian event, a highlight of Perth's summer social calendar, is expecting a huge turnout under ideal party conditions. A blistering temperature of 36 degrees Celsius is forecast for the afternoon, perfect for enjoying a champagne on the main lawn. As the day progresses, the heat is expected to dip just in time for the main event.
Interest has been immense, with all premium hospitality packages completely sold out well in advance. The crowd will be treated to a full day of racing, with the Group 2 Perth Cup, run over 2400 metres, serving as the penultimate event on an 11-race card.
Star Power and Racing Royalty
The trackside atmosphere will be electric, attracting a mix of sporting stars, reality TV favourites, and social media influencers. The guest list is set to include Sydney Swans AFL star Chad Warner, former Celtic footballer Leigh Griffiths, and West Coast Eagles legends Phil and Peter Matera.
They will be joined by Married at First Sight alumni Awhina Rutene, Lauren Dunn, and Billy Belcher, who are sure to be dressed to impress alongside influencers Zak Hasleby and Jordan Kay.
Once the last race is run, the party will continue with live music trackside, ensuring the celebrations last well into the evening.
The Chase for Cup Glory
On the track, all eyes will be on the raging favourite, Apulia. The interstate raider will be piloted by top jockey Willie Pike, adding to its formidable credentials. The race features a field of 15 horses, with local hopes resting on runners like Filthy Habits.
Filthy Habits is trained by Brandon Fiore, who is chasing Cup glory alongside his wife and co-trainer, Lucy. "To win a race like this would just be amazing," Brandon Fiore told RacingWA. "I've always liked the cups and the staying races, so to knock off one like this would be a big goal achieved."
The $1 million Perth Cup is scheduled to jump at 5:40pm on New Year's Day. While hospitality is gone, general admission tickets for the marquee event remain available for purchase through the official Perth Racing website.
