Pack up the Christmas leftovers, don a tailored pant and avoid the shopping crush with a beautiful day of sun and sport as racing returns to Caulfield with the Boxing Day Races. 

The official opening of the summer racing season at Caulfield is set to see soaring temperatures, and a field set to stun with eight races, including the Christmas Stakes.

The eight-race card is highlighted by two listed events. The 1200m Ian McLeod Christmas Stakes features a mix of resuming stars and in-form gallopers. Mick Price’s Duke of Brunswick resumes in that race, while Darren Weir will be looking to go back-to back with Tonopah after claiming last year’s Christmas Stakes with Tuscan Sling.

Nine horses will contest the $120,000 Swettenham Stud Lord Stakes. Last-start Flemington winner Kenjorwood will carry top weight in the race, with Lindsey Park’s Hell or Highwater and the Michelle Payne-ridden Tavi Bay sure to provide a contest throughout the 1700m race.

The day’s racing also contains a further level of intrigue, given that it includes two heats of the Swettenham Stud Summer Championship. The Swettenham Stud Summer Championship Heat 5 will be held one race after the Swettenham Stud Lord Stakes, which doubles at Heat 6 of the series. 

It’ll be a great day out for the kids as well, with mini sports activities including cricket and tennis on the front lawn. There’ll also be plenty of shade and space to relax with a cool drink as you take in the fun. 

And if you’re feeling the FOMO from your mates at the G, you can stay up to date with the Test playing live on screens throughout the concourse.