Victoria’s renowned ‘Nursery of Champions’ is set for a fresh chapter with the Bendigo Jockey Club securing a major new partnership ahead of the new racing season, which begins on Friday.
Ladbrokes has entered a three-year agreement with the leading country club, taking on naming rights for the club’s marquee events and strengthening its presence across Victorian racing.
Under the new deal, Ladbrokes will be the naming rights sponsor for the prestigious $500,000 Group 3 Bendigo Cup (2400m), scheduled for October 29, as well as the $200,000 Listed Golden Mile (1600m), the headline race of the club’s feature autumn meeting.
Entain Australia Interim CEO Andrew Vouris expressed pride in supporting a club that has long been a springboard for some of Australia’s greatest horses, including Better Loosen Up, Shocking and Hyperno.
“Bendigo has always punched above its weight, and we are thrilled to be partnering with a club that plays such a significant role in Australian racing,” Vouris said.
“This partnership is about recognising Bendigo’s longstanding contribution to the industry and helping it reach new heights. With a passionate local racing community behind it, we see huge potential for these races to grow even further.”
The agreement strengthens Ladbrokes’ ties with Victoria’s leading race clubs, adding to its existing naming rights partnership with the Moonee Valley Racing Club and relationships with Cranbourne and Geelong, among others.
Bendigo Jockey Club CEO Paul Scullie described the partnership as a pivotal step for the club both on and off the track.
“This is a landmark partnership for the Bendigo Jockey Club and one that not only supports our feature racedays but also our broader ambitions across racing, community, and events,” Scullie said.
“Ladbrokes shares our vision of delivering a premium and engaging racing experience. Their support will enhance the on-course atmosphere for participants and fans alike, while reinforcing Bendigo’s status as one of the country’s premier regional race clubs.”
The club’s first race meeting of the new season is set for Thursday, August 14.
