The Victoria Racing Club today announced Crown Melbourne as the prestigious new naming rights partner for two of the biggest days on the Australian racing calendar, Oaks Day and Makybe Diva Stakes Day.
Crown, one of Australia’s largest integrated resort and entertainment groups, assumes the naming rights of Crown Oaks Day, the Group 1 Crown Oaks, Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day, the Group 1 Crown Makybe Diva Stakes and the VRC Spring Gala presented by Crown and VRC Crown Oaks Club Lunch, both held at Crown Palladium.
Crown was appointed the VRC’s Principal Hospitality Services Partner in 2022, in a three-year partnership that sees Crown managing hospitality offerings across the VRC’s Flemington Racecourse.
Continuing their support for one of Victoria’s leading events, Crown will also return to host a marquee in the exclusive and world-renowned Birdcage Enclosure throughout the four days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
VRC Chairman Neil Wilson said the landmark deal with Crown would elevate the on-track experience for all.
“We are very pleased to welcome Crown as the naming rights partner of Oaks Day and Makybe Diva Stakes Day. This partnership embodies the shared commitment of both organisations to deliver unparalleled experiences to patrons while showcasing the very best of Australian racing, entertainment and hospitality,” Mr Wilson said.
“The support of Crown enhances the VRC’s current partnership portfolio which allows the club to consistently improve and innovate our Melbourne Cup Carnival offerings, affording our record 34,000-plus members and the public the best possible race day experience.”
Crown Melbourne’s Chief Executive Officer Mike Volkert said the business was pleased to partner with the VRC on two of the most esteemed days on the Australian racing calendar.
“We are incredibly proud to sign on as a Major Partner and align Crown with such iconic and historic events as Makybe Diva Stakes Day and Oaks Day. We look forward to rejoining this year’s birdcage and elevating Crown Oaks Day, as we continue to grow our relationship with the VRC and the Melbourne Cup Carnival,” Mr Volkert said.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting leading entertainment and sporting events that Melbourne is known for. We look forward to welcoming our guests at Flemington, and at Crown Melbourne as the resort comes to life as the home away from the track.”
The enhanced relationship with Crown will also benefit The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, the inaugural community partner for Crown Oaks Day. The partnership allows for the tens of thousands of people who attend Crown Oaks Day to help support sick kids and their families.
