With all the big names in racing, it’s become too easy to overlook Australia’s racing ‘lesser lights’, the forever maidens that never quite make the big time.

That's why online bookmaker sportsbet.com.au is launching ‘The Hotham’.

Dubbed as ‘The richest battlers race in Australia’, it will feature 12 Aussie battlers racing for a purse of $50,000 – making it the richest maiden in Victoria.

The winner will also be awarded the World's tallest racing trophy which stands at over three metres in height.

The Hotham will be run over 1200m and take place at Ballarat on October 12.

Sportsbet will make major announcements that will see The Hotham become a must see spectacle on the racing calendar.

“We want to fly the flag for the biggest Aussie battlers, the forever maidens that are yet to taste their first win,” said sportsbet.com.au’s CEO Cormac Barry.

“We are investing further into Victorian racing and doing it the Sportsbet way. We can’t wait to see one of these horses go from rags to riches via The Hotham.

"We have some fun and unique items to announce in the lead up as well – watch this space!”

‘The Hotham’ runners will be selected via reverse ballot conditions – a maiden with most starts gets preference alongside the lowest prizemoney and age of the horse.