The race when first run in 1863 was known as the Great Metropolitan Stakes.[2]
It is one of the main races in the Sydney Spring Carnival held in early October at Randwick Racecourse, along with the Epsom Handicap.[1]
Many great household names have won this race, but none have won the treble of The Metropolitan, Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup. Prior to 2004 the race was run on the first Monday in October, the Labour Day holiday.
1942 racebook
Front page 1942 AJC Metropolitan Handicap racebook
Starters and results of the 1942 Metropolitan Handicap
Starters and results showing the winner, Grand Fils
Starters and results of the 1942 Metropolitan Handicap
Back page showing charges at the entrance gates
Name
1863–1888 - Great Metropolitan Stakes
1889–1897 - Metropolitan Stakes
1898–1978 - Metropolitan Handicap
1979 onwards - The Metropolitan
Grade
1863–1978 - Principal Race
1979 onwards - Group 1
Distance
1863–1891 – 2 miles (~3200 metres)
1891–1919 - 11⁄2 miles (~2400 metres)
1920–1971 - 15⁄8 miles (~2600 metres)
1972–1982 – 2600 metres
1983 – 2400 metres
1984–2000 – 2600 metres
2001 onwards - 2400 metres
Venue
The race has been the major long distance event in the Sydney Spring Racing Carnival and has been run at Randwick Racecourse, with one exception in 1983 when the race was run at Warwick Farm Racecourse.[3]