Hawkesbury Race Club to host historic race in preparation for Spring racing season

The Rowley Mile (1600m) is a listed race, run under handicap conditions, with a total prize pool of $150,000 and is for horses aged three-years-old and above.

It is one of the oldest races in Australia, having been run since 1881, and will return to HRC on Thursday, August 20.

HRC CEO Ken Rutherford said that the race holds a lot of history.

"It kicks off the spring season for a lot of horses," he said. "There is a lot of money in the spring carnivals and this is the first race day close to spring for a lot of trainers.

"The likes of Chris Waller, Gai Waterhouse and Bjorn Baker will be getting ready for the day.

"It's an indication of Spring being right around the corner."

Ken said that the Race Club is conscious that people might be a bit reluctant to attend events with potentially large gatherings.

"We are doing all we can to ensure it is safe and comfortable for everyone ... and that our clients can still have a good time."

the Rowley Mile boasts some graduates who have seen quite strong success.

Mister Sea Wolf won in 2018 and went on to win a Group 2 and last year's winner Gaulois, won the Group 3 Eagle Farm Mile in June 2020.

HRC will be welcoming in some new sponsors on the day including; PF Formation, Trivia Central, John Mcilrick Memorial and Grippy Rubber.

The 2020 Rowley Mile will be sponsored by Pioneer Services, who provide exceptional services from cleaning, to grounds, pest and fire protection, to all inclusive property maintenance.

The club has also partnered with local equine based businesses Master Farriers Association of NSW and Prestige Racehorse Transport.

The 2020 Listed Rowley Mile race day will be held at Hawkesbury Race Club on Thursday, August 20. It is $10 per person general admission. Information about other packages can be found here.