The Hotham Handicap, raced as the Lexus Archer Stakes, is a Victoria Racing Club Group 3 Thoroughbred horse race for horses three years old and older, held under quality handicap conditions, over a distance of 2500 metres, held annually at Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne, Australia on Victoria Derby Day. Total prize money for the race is A$300,000.

History

Historically the race has been a traditional lead-up for the Melbourne Cup three days later, with the winner gaining exemption from any ballot for entry to the Cup. As a "Quality Race", the weights are assigned as in a handicap, but with a maximum weight of 60 kg and a minimum weight of 52 kg. The race is also famous due to a triple dead-heat in 1956 involving Fighting Force, Ark Royal and Pandie Sun. From 2024, the VRC moved the race from Victoria Derby day to Makybe Diva Stakes day in September.

Name

Distance

Grade

Doubles wins

The following thoroughbreds have won the Hotham Handicap – Melbourne Cup in the same year. Shocking (2009), Brew (2000), Think Big (1974), Baystone (1958), Foxzami (1949), Sirius (1944), Dark Felt (1943), White Nose (1931), King Ingoda (1922) and Nimblefoot (1870).

1953 and 1954 racebooks

Winners

† Dead heat