Zabeel Classic
The Zabeel Classic is a Group One Thoroughbred horse race run at weight-for-age over a distance of 2000 metres at Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland, New Zealand.
The Zabeel Classic is named in honour of Zabeel, son of Sir Tristram and four-time New Zealand champion sire. The race was formerly known as the Auckland Classic, Oaks Stud Classic and the Japan Racing Association Classic.
It is held on Boxing Day, a raceday steeped in tradition that frequently attracts in excess of 20,000 Aucklanders to the famous course. Up to 2005 the race was held in early January.
List of winners
+ The race was moved from January to December in 2005.Ellerslie Boxing day meeting
On this day, as well as the Zabeel Classic, Ellerslie holds 9 other races including:- the Westbury Stud Royal Descent Stakes - 1400m for fillies and mares - $90,000.
- the Dunstan Horsefeeds Stayers Championship Final - 2400m special conditions $125,000
- the Auckland Guineas - Group 2, 1400m for 3YO horses - $270,000
- the Stella Artois 1500 Championship Final - special conditions $110,000.
- the Eight Carat Classic - Group 2, 1600m 3YO fillies set weight $270,000.