The race has been won by horses of exceptional calibre that have won at 2400 metres (~1+1⁄2 miles) or longer. These include such thoroughbreds that also competed overseas as Tobin Bronze and Better Loosen Up.
Distance
1955–1972 - 1+1⁄4 miles (~2000 metres)
1973 onwards - 1600 metres
Grade
1955–1979 - Principal Race
1979 onwards - Group 2
Venue
In 2007 the race was run at Sandown Racecourse due to reconstruction of Flemington Racecourse.[3]