The Newmarket Handicap is considered Australia's premier sprint race.

First run in 1874, the brainchild of VRC committeeman Captain Frederick Standish who thought a "short and merry" race over six furlongs would add interest to the Club's autumn program.

[3] The Newmarket Handicap is the only Flemington race, apart from the Melbourne Cup, in which up to 24 horses are permitted to start.

[5] The most successful jockey has been Damien Oliver with three wins – Alinghi (2005), Toledo (2001) and Schillaci (1992).

[6] The race record is held by 2011 winner Black Caviar who posted the time of 1:07.36.