The Entertainment Grounds welcomed approximately 2,000 racegoers to Coast Race Day 2026, with patrons enjoying a huge afternoon of metropolitan racing, premium hospitality, entertainment and one of the strongest race programs seen on the Central Coast.
With more than $2 million in prizemoney on offer, Coast Race Day once again cemented itself as the Central Coast’s biggest and richest race day.
The success of the meeting was further highlighted by outstanding feedback from leading trainers and jockeys following the event.
Strong Praise for the Gosford Track Surface
One of Australia’s leading trainers, Chris Waller, praised the presentation of the Gosford track following the meeting, highlighting the fairness and quality of the racing surface.
“Well done on the way you presented the track on Saturday,” Waller said.
“The jockeys gave great feedback that the track was forgiving, and the horses appreciated that surface — we can’t stand firm tracks.
“It was a fair track, and it needs to be this way with the short straight – all horses need to be able to win.”
Waller also acknowledged the efforts of the track team and committee in delivering the successful race meeting.
The quality of the racing throughout the day reflected the improvements made to the Gosford racing surface in recent years, with competitive racing across the program and multiple horses able to utilise different racing patterns successfully.
Standout Racing Performances
Triple M Thunder Thousand Benchmark 78 Handicap – $200,000
The opening feature saw Compensation, trained by Bjorn Baker and ridden by Rachel King, produce a strong on-speed performance to win after leading throughout from barrier one.
The race also showcased local Central Coast talent, with Stratafy, trained by Gosford local Neil Ward, finishing strongly and highlighting the depth of racing talent within the region.
De Bortoli Wines Takeover Target Stakes
The feature sprint was taken out by King Of Roseau, trained by Peter Snowden and ridden by Kerrin McEvoy, continuing the horse’s impressive form.
Steinbok The Coast 3&4YO Quality – $500,000
The headline event of the day, The Coast, again attracted a high-quality field competing for the meeting’s richest prize.
The partnership with local Central Coast brand Steinbok further reinforced the strong support between Gosford Race Club and local businesses helping grow racing in the region.
Guardian Safety Solutions Gosford Gold Cup – $300,000
The prestigious Gosford Gold Cup was won by Asterix (NZ) for leading trainer Chris Waller and jockey Jason Collett.
The race also highlighted the ongoing support of local business partners including Guardian Safety Solutions, a long-term supporter of Gosford Race Club.
Entertainment & On-Course Experiences
Beyond the racing, Coast Race Day delivered a full entertainment experience for racegoers across the venue.
Key activations included:
- Glam Bar by April Harvey
- Sydney DJs performing throughout the day and after the final race
- Fashion Spotters
- Italian Long Lunch featuring Chef Daniel from Baker Street
- TAB Stayers Lounge
- National Anthem performance by Jess King
The combination of racing, hospitality and entertainment helped create a vibrant atmosphere across the venue from gates open through to after the last race.
A Huge Event for the Central Coast
Gosford Race Club CEO Daniel Lacey said the event continued to grow in both scale and popularity.
“The weather was on our side, ticket sales were strong and the crowds rolled through the gates to enjoy one of the Central Coast’s biggest race days,” Lacey said.
“We introduced new collaborations with many of our partners, all of which added to the patron experience.
“Across ANZAC and Coast Race Day we welcomed more than 6,000 patrons and provided employment opportunities for our 200+ casual staff roster.”
Looking Ahead
With strong crowds, elite racing, growing industry recognition and outstanding feedback from participants, Coast Race Day continues to establish itself as one of the premier racing events in New South Wales.
The Entertainment Grounds thanks all racegoers, trainers, jockeys, sponsors, partners and staff who contributed to another successful Coast Race Day.