The Archer to take aim

Rocky Amateurs is poised to host the richest race in regional Queensland next year after officially unveiling The Archer.

The exciting new slot race, which will see 12 horses contest the 1300m sprint under weight-for-age conditions at Callaghan Park on May 7, will offer an incredible $440,000 in prize money, including $275,000 to the winner.

Bentleys Queensland, an international network of advisory and accounting firms, has signed on as the major partner of The Archer.

Unsurprisingly, the concept has attracted some of the biggest names in racing, including inaugural The Everest slot holders, Aquis Park and Max Whitby, along with leviathan North Queensland owner, Tom Hedley.

In total, 11 slots have been purchased for the next three years, with each slot holder paying $35,000 per annum to take their place in the field.

The 12th and final slot for the 2022 edition was sold to the Geoff Maynard Syndicate at auction earlier this month for $50,000 and will go back on the line for 2023.

The slot holders are:

• Aquis;
• Archer Park Racing;
• Whitby Bloodstock;
• Mackemme Racing;
• Bucket List Syndicate;
• Geoff Maynard Syndicate;
• Tom Hedley;
• John Kele;
• Alan and Jennifer Acton;
• Rob and Leonie Carr;
• Karla and Peter McPhail; and
• Ron and Jill Milne.

Rocky Amateurs Chairman Bill Reid said The Archer was designed to put Central Queensland on the map.

“We’re excited to unveil The Archer and to host the richest race in regional Queensland,” Mr Reid said.

“Over the coming years, it will continue to grow, with the stakes set to rise each year.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to secure some incredible slot holders, and we look forward to the race capturing the attention of punters and race goers alike.”

The name for the new race comes from Rockhampton’s Mount Archer, which overlooks Callaghan Park.

Rocky Amateurs are now working with Racing Queensland to build out the card which will see more than half a million in stakes up for grabs.

“Bentleys are honoured to be a part of this history-making event in Queensland racing. We congratulate Central Queensland Amateur Racing Club for their tenacity and vision,” Bentleys Queensland Managing Partner Ben Cameron said.

“The Archer promises to be a prestigious event that will showcase Central Queensland.”

Trainers and horse owners interested in the race can contact marketing@rockyamateurs.org.au to obtain slot holder details.

Click here to learn more about The Archer.