Victoria’s First Slot Race is Coming in 2026!
Birchip’s once-a-year race day on the March long weekend is adored for its exciting action on the track and incredible party off it, but things will go to a new level in 2026 when the club hosts the state’s very first harness slot race.
The newest addition to the racing calendar will be known as ‘Running of the Bulls’ and has country Victoria at its core.
Thanks to the generous support of major sponsor Cargill, the feature event will be run for $125,000 in each of the first two years and boasts a unique set of conditions that asks slot holders to find the right horse at just the right time in their career.
So whether you’re chasing a slice of the cash or just love good, old-fashioned regional racing, make sure the iconic Birchip meeting is firmly marked on your calendar in 2026.
The inaugural Running of the Bulls will be held on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The second running is scheduled for Sunday, March 7, 2027.
In the heart of Victoria’s Mallee region, Birchip is located about three-and-a-half hours from Melbourne. The track is at 109 Cumming Avenue, Birchip.
- 4YO+ up to NR90 pace (NR91+ if horse hasn’t won any race of $15,000 or more)
- No race wins of $50,000 or more since January 1, 2024
- Victorian-trained from December 1, 2025
- Preferential barrier draw (NR), mobile, 2150m
| 1st | $62,500 |
| 2nd | $25,000 |
| 3rd | $17,500 |
| 4th | $10,000 |
| 5th | $3.750 |
| 6th | $1,250 |
| 7th | $1,250 |
| 8th | $1,250 |
| 9th | $1,250 |
| 10th | $1,250 |
A committee involving members from the Birchip Harness Racing Club, Harness Racing Victoria and an independent will review all slot submissions after expressions of interest close on November 14, 2025.
The nine successful applicants (race sponsor Cargill has the 10th slot) will be awarded a slot based on a range of criteria, including record of previous engagement and cooperation with the BHRC and HRV, capacity to promote the race and willingness to attend the meeting.
Slots have been set at $10,000 (ex GST) per year, with a two-year commitment for 2026 and 2027.
Hospitality options will be available for purchase by successful slot applicants.
More race day information, lead-up events and accommodation options coming soon.
