Empire Rose Stakes

What Is the Empire Rose Stakes?

The Empire Rose Stakes is one of the spring calendar’s highlight races for fillies and mares at Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne. Classified as a Group 1 event, this mile contest is run under set weights and penalties. Open to females aged three years and older, it’s staged on Derby Day, launching the world-renowned Melbourne Cup Carnival. The race draws Australia’s best middle-distance mares, and is an important stage for emerging stars as well as proven Group 1 performers seeking spring glory.

Key Facts

• Race Type: Group 1 Thoroughbred
• Eligibility: Fillies & Mares, 3YO and older
• Distance: 1,600 metres
• Surface: Turf
• Track: Left-handed 
• Weight Conditions: Set weights & penalties
• Prize Money: $1,000,000 
• When: Derby Day (late October or early November)

When Was the Empire Rose Stakes First Run?

First run in 1988, the Empire Rose Stakes attracts some of the best mares in training. The race provides a valuable opportunity for fillies and mares to showcase their class over a mile, often serving as a stepping stone to races like the Cox Plate or the VRC Oaks.

When Is the Empire Rose Stakes Held?

The mile showpiece takes place every Derby Day, which traditionally falls on the last Saturday of October or the first of November. As a centrepiece of the opening day of Melbourne Cup week, the race sets the tone for one of Australia’s most famous racing carnivals.

How Long Is the Empire Rose Stakes?

The distance of the Empire Rose Stakes is 1,600 metres. This classic mile test challenges both the sprinting and staying qualities of leading fillies and mares.

How Many Runners Are in the Empire Rose Stakes?

Up to 18 horses can contest the event, with emergency runners also named. In most recent renewals, between 12 and 18 high-class mares have lined up, promising punters a deep and competitive race.

Who Will Win the Empire Rose Stakes in 2025?

The 2025 renewal of the Empire Rose Stakes will again bring an elite line-up to Flemington. Horses with strong form in Group 1 lead-ups like the Toorak Handicap or Tristarc Stakes are always worth noting. 

Previous Winners of the Empire Rose Stakes

Recent winners underline the strength and diversity of talent in this premier mares’ mile. Here are the latest champions and their trainers: