INTRODUCTION

The thrill of racing a thoroughbred is enjoyed worldwide. The dream of competing on the world stage is the realisation for an elite few.

In its six year history, the Global Sprint Challenge has not only enhanced the earning potential and value of sprinters, it has delivered an unforgettable experience for owners and trainers.

Without question, the opportunity to compete on the world stage is one to be embraced and the Global Sprint Challenge provides the chance to do so.

The dream has been shared by the connections of several Australian flag-bearers since the series’ inception, most notably Takeover Target, Miss Andretti and Scenic Blast.

As this brochure went to press, Scenic Blast was on the brink of becoming the first horse to claim a US$1 million bonus for winning three Group 1 Challenge races in three different countries.

After victories in the Group 1 Coolmore Lightning Stakes at Flemington, Australia and the Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot, United Kingdom the bonus can be his if victorious in the 2009 Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Sprint.

The 2010 Global Sprint Challenge again offers a US$1 million bonus pool for any horse that can prove triumphant in Group 1 Challenge races in three different countries.

With the bonus split 75% for the owner and 25% for the trainer, there’s a great incentive to campaign sprinters outside your own country.

As Scenic Blast showed in 2009 it is not an unrealistic target and the potential reward is indeed a handsome one.

The 2010 Global Sprint Challenge again takes in eight races across four countries – Australia, UK, Japan and Hong Kong – with lucrative stakes on offer for each leg.

We are again proud to open the 2010 series in Australia with the Coolmore Lightning Stakes (1000m) before it heads to the UK for a trio of races and then to Japan for two more legs.

The series returns to Australia in November for the Patinack Farm Classic (1200m) which will take place during a historic week’s racing, one in which our nation celebrates the 150th running of the Emirates Melbourne Cup, before concluding with the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Sprint in December.

We look forward to this year’s series again showcasing the world’s best sprinters and encourage owners and trainers worldwide to support the 2010 Global Sprint Challenge.

Rob Hines
Chief Executive
Racing Victoria Limited, Australia