Moir Stakes
What Is The Moir Stakes?
The Moir Stakes is a premier Group 1 thoroughbred race held annually under lights at The Valley (Moonee Valley Racecourse) in Melbourne.
Known for its electric atmosphere, this race attracts some of the best sprinters in Australasia, who battle it out over 1,000 metres. With a top-level field and a lucrative prize pool, it’s always a headline act on the spring racing calendar.
Key Facts – Moir Stakes
- Race Name: Moir Stakes
- Date: Typically early September
- Track: Moonee Valley Racecourse, Melbourne
- Race Distance: 1,000 metres
- Track Direction: Anti-clockwise (left-handed)
- Surface: Turf
- Race Type: Thoroughbred (Group 1, Weight-for-Age)
- Total Prize Money: $1,000,000
- Qualification: Open, three-years-old and older
When Was the Moir Stakes First Run?
It was first run in 1976. Since its inception, the race has grown in both status and popularity, becoming a Group 1 fixture in 2013 after being upgraded from Group 2 status.
When Is the Moir Stakes Held?
The race is held annually in early September as one of the first Group 1 feature sprints of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival. The race typically runs on a Friday or Saturday night, making it a headline event for racing fans under the iconic lights of The Valley.
How Long Is the Moir Stakes?
It is contested over a distance of 1,000 metres. This short course tests both speed and agility, making it one of the most exciting betting races of the year.
How Many Runners Are In the Moir Stakes?
This race generally features a field of 10 to 15 runners. The Moonee Valley circuit suits smaller fields due to its tight turns and relatively short straight, ensuring a fiercely contested sprint to the line.
Who Will Win the Moir Stakes?
Predicting the Moir Stakes winner is always challenging given the high-class field and unique race conditions.
Horses with natural gate speed and prior performance under lights often have an edge. Recent years have seen returning champions and rising stars enter, offering punters both value and intrigue.
Previous Winners of the Moir Stakes
A prestigious honour roll, including names like Buffering, Nature Strip, and the mighty Black Caviar. Below is a list of recent winners and their trainers:
| Year | Winner | Trainer |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Asfoora | Henry Dwyer |
| 2023 | Imperatriz | Mark Walker |
| 2022 | Coolangatta | Ciaron Maher & David Eustace |
| 2021 | Wild Ruler | Peter & Paul Snowden |
| 2020 | Pippie | Chris Meagher |
| 2019 | Nature Strip | Chris Waller |
| 2018 | Viddora | Lloyd Kennewell |
| 2017 | She Will Reign | Gary Portelli |
| 2016 | Buffering | Robert Heathcote |
| 2015 | Buffering | Robert Heathcote |
Moir Stakes Runners & Field
The official Moir Stakes field is announced the week of the race. Expect elite sprinters topped with Group 1 credentials and up-and-coming youngsters from leading stables.
Moir Stakes Odds & Betting Tips
Odds are released soon after the field is declared. Early favourites are usually proven Group 1 performers with Moonee Valley experience.
Where can I watch the Moir Stakes live?
It is broadcast live across major Australian racing channels and through online streaming via select bookmakers.
Stay up to date on all things Moir Stakes with expert previews, runner insights, betting odds, and live coverage as race day approaches. For the latest fields and tips, bookmark this page and check official sites like Moonee Valley Racing Club.
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