Racing NSW has failed in a bid to have four Sydney races recognised as Group 1s after members of the Asian Pattern Committee (APC) rejected its submission, The Straight can reveal.
It is understood that the APC took a dim view of the submission for the $10 million Golden Eagle and the $3 million Russell Balding to hold Group 1 status by voting against the motion at a meeting on Thursday evening (AEST).
The principal racing authority (PRA) had also made the case for the Premiere Stakes, the last Sydney lead-up to The Everest, and the autumn’s Apollo Stakes to be upgraded from Group 2 to Group 1 status.
Those races were also denied international approval as Group 1 status by APC delegates.
The slap down by the APC could also have consequences for connections of overseas-owned horses who are considering targeting the Golden Eagle or owners and trainers of Everest runners who may elect to target the Group 1 Champions Sprint in Melbourne rather than stay in Sydney after The Everest.
It is believed at least one international jockey may not be released to ride in the Golden Eagle if it is not staged at Group 1 level.
The Golden Eagle and the Russell Balding will be staged at Randwick on November 1.
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