Ladbrokes Cox Plate 100 - Saturday 24th October 2020

“The spot selected by Mr Cox is a beautifully situated enclosure surrounded by picturesque hills and consisting of 100 acres in all, the racecourse enclosure comprising about 60 acres” “In the reserve is a newly built stand capable of seating about 400 people, whilst the natural hill immediately adjoining affords accommodation for many thousands, who will have a splendid view of the races from start to finish” Cox did not live long enough to enjoy all the success of his racecourse developments and he died in 1895. His executors were his son Archie and daughter Alexandra, and they were also appointed trustees to run the Moonee Valley racecourse and the farming businesses for the benefit of the family. It was Cox’s wish that the trustees extend the leasing of the land to the Club on a ten-year rolling basis. In 1917 following pressure from the Government and the VRC in 1917 to end proprietary racing clubs, the Moonee Valley Racing Club was established with Alister Clark being Chairman. The Club continued to administer the arrangements put in place by WS and in 1929 exercised the rights to purchase the course from the Cox family and this was completed in 1935. During this time in 1922, the first W.S. Cox Plate was run and won by imported stallion Violoncello. 26th October - 1901. Moonee Valley Racing Club Racebook