Western Australia’s richest horse race is back — and The Quokka 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting sprint contests of the Australian racing calendar.

Set to take place on Saturday 18 April 2026 at Ascot Racecourse in Perth, The Quokka has quickly become one of the most talked-about races in the country. With $5 million in prize money and a field packed with elite sprinters, it now stands among Australia’s most lucrative and competitive races.

For racing fans and corporate groups alike, Quokka Day has become a must-attend event, combining world-class racing with premium hospitality and one of the best atmospheres of the autumn carnival.

A Race Built for Speed

Run over 1200 metres, The Quokka is a high-intensity weight-for-age sprint designed to showcase the fastest horses in the country.

The race uses a slot-holder model, where racing organisations and partners secure a slot before selecting the horse that will represent them in the field. The format has created intense competition, with owners and trainers eager to secure a place in one of the richest races in Australian sprinting.

Since its launch in 2023, The Quokka has already produced memorable moments:

• 2023 – Overpass wins the inaugural running in a thrilling finish

• 2024 – Overpass returns to defend his title in dominant fashion

• 2025 – Jokers Grin delivers a sensational victory for Western Australia

The race continues to attract top-class sprinters from across Australia, with interstate contenders travelling west to compete for the massive prize purse.

Rising Contenders for The Quokka 2026

Attention is already building around several exciting runners expected to feature in the 2026 field.

One horse generating early interest is Caballus, a progressive sprinter whose recent performances have caught the attention of racing analysts. Known for his powerful finishing speed, Caballus has been building momentum and could emerge as a serious contender heading into Quokka Day.

With the slot-holder system creating unique alliances between owners, trainers and partners, the final field is often one of the most fascinating aspects of the race — and surprises are always possible.

Quokka Day: One of the Best Race Days in Australia

While the main event delivers elite racing, Quokka Day at Ascot Racecourse is about far more than just the race itself.

The event has quickly become one of the biggest social and sporting days on the Western Australian calendar, bringing together racing fans, corporate hosts and groups looking for an unforgettable day trackside.

Expect:

• A full day of premium racing
• Electric crowd atmosphere at Ascot
• Luxury hospitality, exclusively with IPE
• Top-tier food, drinks and celebrity guest appearances from horse racing & sporting legends

For corporate groups in particular, Quokka Day offers the perfect opportunity to host clients, reward teams and enjoy one of Australia’s most exciting sporting events in style.

Secure Your Tickets to The Quokka 2026

Demand for Quokka Day tickets and hospitality packages is rising!

Whether you’re a passionate racing fan or looking to host an unforgettable day out, The Quokka delivers one of the most exciting race day experiences in Australia.

Tickets and premium hospitality packages are limited.

Secure your place now and experience the thrill of The Quokka live at Ascot Racecourse.