The much-anticipated 2025 Golden Slipper, renowned as Australia's richest race specifically for two-year-olds, is set to unfold this Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Rosehill Gardens. This iconic event, showcasing the creme de la creme of juvenile thoroughbreds, will step into the limelight at 4:35 PM AEDT, and fans are buzzing with excitement.
Leading the charge in the race is Rivellino, a strong contender trained by Kris Lees and ridden by the experienced Hugh Bowman. This horse demonstrated excellent form, winning impressively in the Skyline before the Slipper, thereby establishing itself as a leading player in this Group 1 event. “With the right run, Rivellino's chances look bright,” said trainer Kris Lees.
Challenging Rivellino are other exciting entrants like Within The Law, hot off a fantastic victory in the Group 2 Sweet Embrace Stakes. Her trainer, Bjorn Baker, claims, “Within The Law is my best-ever chance to win the $5 million two-year-old race.” This hopeful sentiment reflects Baker's commitment to achieving success in a race he has long coveted. “Winning the Golden Slipper would enhance my stable's appeal to breeders and investors,” he emphasized, underscoring the significance of the race beyond mere prestige.
Another horse in the spotlight is Tempted, who has piqued interest among punters and experts alike, drawing positive attention with her dazzling performances. Rated equally alongside Wodeton as $5 joint-favorites, Tempted is expected to draw on the energy of the crowd and push her limits further. Glen Boss, a retired champion jockey, notes, “On current form, Blake is the best rider in Australia,” referring to Blake Shinn, who will be piloting Tempted this Saturday.
The field features a blend of talent from various stables, including the impressive Skyhook, who recently triumphed in the Pago Pago. Expectations are continuously shifting with the betting markets, where punters are observing which horses rise and fall in their odds. As TAB's Gerard Daffy observes, “It's the most open Golden Slipper I can remember,” providing insight into the competitive nature of this year's event.
Among those making headlines is Marhoona, who surprised many with her form in the Reisling Stakes, finishing in an excellent position. Her potential in the Slipper shows how unpredictable racing can be, drawing in fans eager to see her push the envelope amidst stiff competition.
As the race day approaches, the focus equally extends to the preparations of each horse, with all 16 runners, including the two emergencies, undergoing veterinary examinations by Racing NSW's officials. Notably, concerns surround West Of Swindon, who has been struggling with a near fore foot ailment. The health assessments came with the ultimatum, as a further evaluation on race morning will determine whether he is fit to compete.
The dynamic between trainers and jockeys becomes especially crucial on days like these, as proven by the relationship between Glen Boss and Blake Shinn. Having transformed the trajectory of Shinn’s career after earlier challenges, Boss noted their shared commitment to refining their techniques and strategies. Shinn's dedication has clearly paid off, as he has stamped his presence in the racing arena, guided wisely by veterans like Boss.
The broader racing community is rallying around the Golden Slipper, sharing insights, predictions, and affinities for the promising horses participating this year. Trainers and jockeys alike have expressed hopes for a day filled with exhilarating performances and memorable moments, asserting, “This is Sydney’s race,” affirming the cultural impact of the event across Australia.
As the sun rises on Rosehill Gardens, an atmosphere of optimism pervades. With several favorites standing out, the 2025 Golden Slipper promises not just a significant race but a testament to the profound connection shared between horse racing and its passionate followers. Amidst the bubbling tension and excitement of identifying victors, all eyes will be set on those vibrant horses, each a vessel of fierce competition and potential glory.
