Sportsbet Melbourne Cup Heats
Australia's Ultimate Greyhound Qualifiers
When
Saturday
21
November 2026
TBC
Where
Sandown Park
Time
Gates open 5.30pm
Broadcast
Live from 6pm
Event Overview
This is where legends begin. On Saturday 21 November, the Sportsbet Melbourne Cup and Bold Trease heats explode into life at Sandown Park, as Australia’s fastest greyhounds go flat out for a place in the biggest finals of the year. Eight heats. No second chances. Dreams made and broken in under 30 seconds. And the action doesn’t stop at the finish line. Rewind 80s will have the crowd singing outside near Box 9, a DJ keeps the party pumping upstairs, and local community clubs bring the colour and noise as they’re drawn their Community Sweep finalists. Grab a bite from the food trucks, settle in for a buffet with the family, or talk tactics with Australia’s Greatest Greyhound Punter, Troy Little. General admission is free, so round up your mates and be there when the field takes shape.
Unmissable Racing
There are no second chances on Heats Night. Every race decides who earns a place in the Sportsbet Melbourne Cup and Bold Trease finals, and who goes home empty-handed. Get trackside under the Sandown lights and watch the country’s elite greyhounds lay it all on the line.
Entertainment All Night
Heats Night is more than the racing. Expect live entertainment, great music, food trucks and a buzzing atmosphere from gates open to the final race. Rewind 80s bring the ultimate throwback party outside near Box 9, with all the big hits from Madonna, INXS, Queen, Bon Jovi and more. Prefer a different vibe? Head upstairs, where a DJ will keep the energy pumping all night long. Grab your mates and make a night of it.
Back Your Club
Local sporting and community clubs are taking over Sandown. Through the Melbourne Cup and Bold Trease Community Sweep, clubs are drawn a finalist on Heats Night and ride every stride with them to Cup Final Night, with $25,000 in prizes on the line. Bring the colours, bring the noise and cheer your runner home.
Sportsbet Melbourne Cup Heats
Event Packages
Step into the exhilarating world of the Sportsbet Dream Chasers Series and savor Sandown Park's premier hospitality. Join us for this remarkable event, where you'll witness the thrill of the Melbourne Cup Heats that promises to ignite the track. Explore the array of enticing packages listed below and ensure your place at Sandown Park before they're fully booked. Don't let this unforgettable experience slip away!
Package Name
$100
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Grab your mates and get right into the action trackside. Our marquee sits right near the first turn, where the field hits top speed and the atmosphere is electric. With a BBQ meal and four drink vouchers included, it’s the ultimate way to kick off your Cup season with great company, cold drinks and racing up close. Strictly 18+.
Package Inclusions:
- Marquee located at the first turn
- BBQ meal
- 4 drink vouchers
- Access to all on course entertainment areas and activations
- Track entry
- 18+ event
Bring the whole family along for one of the biggest nights on the greyhound calendar. Our buffet is loaded with hearty, crowd-pleasing favourites, so everyone can grab a plate, settle in and watch the best greyhounds in the country chase a spot in the Melbourne Cup Final. Great food, a great atmosphere and some of the most competitive racing of the year, from just $45 for adults and $25 for kids.
Package Inclusions:
- Buffet dining
- Access to all on course entertainment areas and activations
- Track entry
The easiest way to do Heats night properly. Pair our generous buffet with a beer, wine and spirits package and you’re set for the whole evening. No queues at the bar, no reaching for your wallet between races, just good food, a drink in hand and wall-to-wall racing as the nation’s best chase their place in the Cup Final.
Package Inclusions:
- Buffet dining
- Beer, wine and spirits package
- Access to all on course entertainment areas and activations
- Track entry
Want to walk away a winner? Join Australia’s Greatest Greyhound Punter, Troy Little, in the Chairmans for a night built for punters. Alongside SEN, Troy will break down the field, share his tips and walk you through his game plan for every race, giving you the inside edge as the heats unfold. With the buffet and beverage package included, it’s the best value seat in the house for anyone serious about their racing.
Package Inclusions:
- Hosted by Australia’s Greatest Greyhound Punter, Troy Little
- Expert tips and race-by-race game plans
- Presented with SEN
- Exclusive Chairmans location
- Buffet dining
- Beer, wine and spirits package
- Access to all on course entertainment areas and activations
- Track entry
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Experience the thrill of greyhound racing like never before at the Sportsbet Melbourne Cup Heats. With FREE general admission, you can enjoy live racing action, vibrant entertainment, and an unbeatable atmosphere. Gather your mates, cheer for your favourites, and make it a evening to remember. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of the action – all at no cost!
Testimonials
What People Are Saying
"I've been a fan of greyhound racing for years, and Dream Chasers exceeded all my expectations. The energy, the music, and the amazing dining options were top-notch. It's an event that caters to both racing enthusiasts and those looking for a fantastic night out."
John D
"What an amazing night! The races were electrifying, and the atmosphere was simply fantastic. The entertainment had everyone on the dancing away, and the overall experience was nothing short of sensational. I can't wait for the next one!"
Linda P
"Attending Dream Chasers was an absolute blast! The thrilling races, world-class hospitality, and incredible DJ performances made for an unforgettable night. It's the kind of experience that will keep me coming back year after year."
Sarah M
About the Venue
Sandown Park
View Rd, Springvale VIC 3171
Sandown Park welcomes you to a world of greyhound racing and unparalleled entertainment, offering patrons ample parking and a world-class experience. Steeped in a storied history, the venue proudly boasts facilities that rival any racing facility in Australia, including the fully enclosed and air-conditioned comfort of the Henry Harrison grandstand. Sandown Park stands as a testament to the timeless charm of this beloved sport, where racing excellence converges with unmatched hospitality.
By Car
You can conveniently park for free at the View Rd entry, right outside the Greyhounds Entertainment venue, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
By Train
For a seamless journey to Sandown Park, hop on the Cranbourne or Pakenham line, which will take you directly to the Sandown Park station.
By Bus
You can catch Bus 811 to the Sandown Greyhounds/View Rd stop, providing easy access to Sandown Parks thrilling events and racing action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code?
There is no dress code if you’re attending General Admission – just dress for the weather! There are some dress requirements in place for the more formal dining spaces.
Is there parking?
Free parking is available on site. Please refer to each event page for more details on parking and directions.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes, there’s plenty of food trucks available and access to public bars.
Can I bring my underaged kids?
Children under the age 18 are welcome to attend.
What time does the event start?
Gates open at 5:30pm, with the first race around 6:30pm each night.
Does it cost to get in?
General Admission entry is FREE for all 5 nights of the festival. If you’d like to upgrade to one of the impressive hospitality packages on offer, these start from just $20
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