One of New Zealand’s showpiece race days has come around for another year, and there’s an exciting twist to the 135th edition of Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase Day.

Etched in jumps racing history, the Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase (4900m) is run around Trentham’s iconic figure-eight circuit, creating a fantastic, challenging and intriguing battle for both horse and rider.

On Saturday, there is a mix of proven stars and up and comers, with defending champion The Cossack taking on Jesko, who won the Manawatu Steeplechase at the venue in his last appearance. Fresh off his victory in the Waikato Steeplechase is Afterallthistime, who pipped Call Me Jack, another runner backing up in the race.

Racegoers are assured of a stirring contest, which will only be enhanced by the voice of Matt Hill, an internationally-renowned race caller having his debut on Kiwi shores at the meeting, alongside Central Districts caller Justin Evans.

Earlier in the day, the hurdlers will take centre stage in the Aztech Engineering Wellington Hurdle (3200m). For an incredible five years in a row, Paul Nelson and Corrina McDougal have won the feature, and two of those have been courtesy of Nedwin.

Now a ten-year-old, the son of Niagara will shoot for a third crown in four years, with his stablemate Suliman also vying for a second title. But it certainly won’t be an easy task, with Manawatu Hurdles winner Billy Boy, and the always threatening Mont Ventoux and Verry Flash in the mix.

Outside of the five jumping races, a couple of classy winter types will step out on the flat, with Farravallo and Catherinenz in the Bill Tito Book Repair Specialist North Island Challenge Stakes (1200m), and the likes of Bozo and Bradman in the MJH Engineering Whyte Handicap (1600m).

The day will kick off bright and early with the first race set to run at 11:00am, and patrons are welcomed on course from 10.00am. General Admission is free, while a range of hospitality options are available for those wanting to upscale their winter racing experience.

There are a range of corporate suites available for any group size, while Trentham’s Desert Gold Restaurant provides a stunning outlook to the winning post, where all the action happens on raceday. For $130pp, the Desert Gold will provide a plated entrée, buffet lunch and afternoon tea, with access to TAB betting facilities.

For a more casual experience with all the perks included, head to the Members Lounge, where an Ultimate Members Lounge Pass offers lunch, a couple of drinks, a betting voucher, and access to the Wellington Floor. Snap this up for $80pp, or just $50pp for RACE members.

Jumps racing doesn’t get any better than this, so head down to Trentham on Saturday and be a part of the spectacle.