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The Blue Sapphire, to be staged this year on October 15 at Caulfield, yesterday earned upgrade to Listed status by the Australian Racing Board [ARB] upon recommendation by the Australian Pattern Committee [AusPC].
It was one of four upgrades enjoyed by races conducted by the Melbourne Racing Club [MRC], also including the Fillies’ Sportingbet Blue Diamond Preview and Preludes, and New Zealand Bloodstock Ethereal Stakes.
Of the 14 races recommended for upgrade by the AusPC and granted by the ARB, the Blue Sapphire is the only to take effect in 2014.
The 1200-metre, set-weights race for three-year-olds earned the upgrade through meeting the requisite ratings standards in its opening two editions: the first won by subsequent Group 1 winner Snitzerland, who defeated Fire Thunderbolt and ensuing world champion sprinter Lankan Rupee; the following renewal won by Lion of Belfort, with Safeguard and Diamond Oasis filling the placings.
Meanwhile, as of 2015, the Sportingbet Blue Diamond Prelude (Fillies) will be run at Group 2 level, while the Preview in the same series, and the Ethereal, for three-year-old fillies [2000m] on Caulfield Cup day, at Group 3.
MRC Chief Executive, Brodie Arnhold, said the upgrades were testament to the club’s focus on upholding its premier racing product.
“We work extremely hard at ensuring our racing product is first-class, from preparing the fairest surfaces for racing, maintaining attractive prize money levels and recruiting the best equine talent,” Arnhold said.
“This not only provides the ideal playground for participants – the owners, trainers and jockeys – but appeals to racing’s customers, punters.
“All of the upgrades are pleasing, but the Blue Sapphire earning stakes status in particular is gratifying, as it is a race that we see has great potential and is one we’ll continue to invest in.
We will be working hard to ensure it continues to progress with another strong renewal during this year’s Crown Golden Ale Caulfield Cup Carnival.”