Thousands of punters descend on Ascot Racecourse for Railway Stakes thoroughbred race

Thousands of punters have flocked to Ascot Racecourse for a sunny day at the races to watch one of the most anticipated thoroughbred races in WA’s racing calendar.

Railway Stakes kicked off at the racecourse Saturday afternoon, with guests dressed to the nines in glitzy gowns, fabulous fascinators and dapper suits.

Punter Daisy Nicholaidis told The West Australian she had come with her entire family to pay tribute to her late father, Robbie, who worked as a bookie.

“He died 27 years ago, but we always come out for Melbourne Cup and Railway Stakes with our families and nieces ... it’s really nice.”

Leigh Pope — who was having a pre-race drink with a group of girlfriends — said she and her besties were settling in for a much-needed “girls day”.

“It’s hard to get the girls together, so we’re going to hang around all day and have a fun night,” she said.

The first race kicked off at 12.30pm, with Janny, ridden by jockey William Pike, taking home the win after edging out in a mad dash in the last hundred metres.

Candlelight Supper, ridden by jockey Alan Matthews, took home gold in a thrilling second race.

Former Eagles star Andrew Embley was seen cheering excitedly as Yes Queen, also ridden by Pike, crossed the line as the winning thoroughbred in the third race.

Couple Angie and Lee Madden said they came down to Ascot for “every single race”.

“We love coming to the races .... we really only started to show an interest in racing over a year ago, and (since then) we’ve been participating,” Ms Madden said.

“We are here for every single race.

“It doesn’t take much to dress and feel good about yourself.”