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The State Government has committed $1.5 million over the next three years to support a new slot race – The Golden Saddle – during the historic Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club Race Round.
The Golden Saddle, named in recognition of the prospectors who first arrived in the Goldfields more than 130 years ago and left on horseback with saddles full of gold, will be a weight-for-age event over 1100m, with $1 million in prizemoney.
Speaking at the Kalgoorlie Racecourse ahead of Saturday’s Listed Kalgoorlie Cup (2300m), Premier Roger Cook revealed three-year funding commitment, which will begin in 2025-26.
“Racing has been an important part of the Goldfields since 1896 and remains integral to the local economy and community,” Premier Cook said.
“We are proud to invest in a local industry that supports 430 full-time jobs and accounts for $54.5 million of the $1.3 billion that racing contributes to the WA economy every year.
“The Kalgoorlie Race Round provides a significant economic injection to the region, while bringing the community together at key social events.
“Adding the biggest regional slot race in the nation will further increase the popularity of the Kalgoorlie Cup.”
RWWA CEO Ian Edwards said the introduction of The Golden Saddle at the KBRC would further elevate the Race Round as a must-attend event.
“The announcement of this new slot race, aptly named The Golden Saddle, follows the tremendous success of other high-profile WA thoroughbred slot races such as The Quokka, worth $5 million at Ascot,” he said.
“The new slot race at the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club is anticipated to generate significant interest from across the racing industry and beyond, enhancing the Race Round's prestige both locally and nationally.
“The Goldfields has long been an integral part of Western Australia's racing history, with our sport deeply embedded in the region's social fabric.
“The Golden Saddle slot race will strengthen racing's role in fostering community connection while drawing racegoers to the town, providing a boost to local businesses in the process.”
"The race’s $1 million in prizemoney includes the State Government’s $500,000 commitment, $80,000 in stakes in which would usually be committed to a Saturday ratings race and slot holders’ investments accounting for the remaining funds.
Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia, who was also in Kalgoorlie-Boulder for Saturday’s announcement and Kalgoorlie Cup meeting, praised the slot race concept.
“The Kalgoorlie Race Round attracts racegoers from around Australia and the State to the Goldfields region and the new slot race is a significant new sporting drawcard for both tourists and locals,” he said.
Zach Relph