CHAIR ADAM LENNEN CHAIR’S WELCOME HELLO AND WELCOME TO LADBROKES GOLD CUP NIGHT The stage is set for an incredible 24 hours of action at The Valley. This year carries special significance as we host our final meetings on the current track before redevelopment begins to deliver The Valley of Tomorrow. Tonight, the spotlight is on the Club’s oldest race, the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup. For the first time, this historic race offers a golden ticket into the Melbourne Cup, strengthening its reputation as a key lead-up to the first Tuesday in November. Last year’s winner, Okita Soushi, went on to finish third in the Melbourne Cup. The program also includes the third and final heat of Series 1 of the Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge, with Beast Mode for Ben, Will and JD Hayes holding the time to beat at 55.17 seconds. This year marks the second year of a three-year partnership with Myeloma Australia as the Cox Plate Carnival Charity Pin partner. I encourage you to purchase a pin while on course, with proceeds going directly to support Myeloma Australia and the vital work they do for patients and families living with this rare blood cancer. They are also tonight’s Cheering for Charity partner, with proceeds from the selected race adding to the cause. There is an even more personal connection to our charity this evening. Matt James, founder of Mashd N Kutcher who will perform our post-race concert, was diagnosed with myeloma in 2023. His story is one of strength and optimism, and it is fitting that Mashd N Kutcher will close out the night with a high-energy performance. Thank you for joining us for what promises to be a memorable start to the Ladbrokes Cox Plate Carnival. Enjoy the racing, the entertainment and the special sense of occasion that comes with a night under lights at The Valley. Moonee Valley Racing Club respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this land, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation, and pay our respects to its Elders past, present and emerging.
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