The British Champions Long Distance Cup is a Group 2 flat horse race for thoroughbreds aged three and above in the United Kingdom.
Every year in October at Ascot, it takes place over a distance of 1 mile 7 furlongs and 209 yards as part of British Champions Day.
The Long Distance Cup is a true test of stamina, covering a demanding 2 miles (3,200 metres). As an expert in UK horse racing and betting, British Racecourses provides an in-depth look into why this event is a must-watch for punters and fans alike.
Find out more about the British Champions Long Distance Cup:
Contents
- 1 What is the British Champions Long Distance Cup?
- 2 Why is the Long Distance Cup so Important?
- 3 British Champions Long Distance Cup Previous Winners
- 4 Key Horses to Watch in the British Champions Long Distance Cup
- 5 Betting Strategies for the Long Distance Cup
- 6 British Champions Long Distance Cup Previous Result
- 7 Key FAQs about the British Champions Long Distance Cup
- 8 Summary of British Champions Long Distance Cup
- 9 Ascot Champions Day Related Articles
What is the British Champions Long Distance Cup?
The British Champions Long Distance Cup is a Group 2 flat race, designed for elite stayers – horses known for their ability to perform at longer distances.
It forms part of the larger British Champions Day event at Ascot, which is considered the grand finale of the flat racing season. Competing over a gruelling 2 miles, horses need to exhibit remarkable endurance and stamina to emerge victorious.
Why is the Long Distance Cup so Important?
For stayers, this race is one of the most prestigious events on the racing calendar, second only to the likes of the Ascot Gold Cup in terms of long-distance accolades. Winning or even placing in the British Champions Long Distance Cup can elevate a horse’s standing, securing its position as one of the top thoroughbred stayers in the UK and Europe.
The race attracts some of the most seasoned and successful stayers, many of whom have competed in other major races throughout the season, including the Ascot Gold Cup and other staying events. The Long Distance Cup is seen as the ultimate showdown for these horses, making it a key fixture for punters to follow.
British Champions Long Distance Cup Previous Winners
| 2013 | Royal Diamond | 7 | Johnny Murtagh | Johnny Murtagh |
| 2014 | Forgotten Rules | 4 | Pat Smullen | Dermot Weld |
| 2015 | Flying Officer | 5 | Frankie Dettori | John Gosden |
| 2016 | Sheikhzayedroad | 7 | Martin Harley | David Simcock |
| 2017 | Order of St George | 5 | Ryan Moore | Aidan O’Brien |
| 2018 | Stradivarius | 4 | Frankie Dettori | John Gosden |
| 2019[b] | Kew Gardens | 4 | Donnacha O’Brien | Aidan O’Brien |
| 2020 | Trueshan | 4 | Hollie Doyle | Alan King |
| 2021 | Trueshan | 5 | Hollie Doyle | Alan King |
| 2022 | Trueshan | 6 | Hollie Doyle | Alan King |
| 2023[b] | Trawlerman | 5 | Frankie Dettori | John & Thady Gosden |
Key Horses to Watch in the British Champions Long Distance Cup
When it comes to betting on the Long Distance Cup, it’s essential to keep an eye on horses that have demonstrated strong performances over similar distances earlier in the season. Horses that have fared well in races like the Ascot Gold Cup are usually solid contenders. Veteran stayers, as well as rising stars, make for a competitive field, offering a variety of betting opportunities for those following the race closely.
Betting Strategies for the Long Distance Cup
Betting on the British Champions Long Distance Cup requires a deep understanding of the horses’ previous performances, stamina, and ability to handle the Ascot course. Horses with proven endurance, particularly those that have excelled at 2 miles or beyond, are the ones to consider. Examining form guides and reviewing past races like the Ascot Gold Cup or Goodwood Cup can provide valuable insights into which stayers are likely to perform well.
British Champions Long Distance Cup Previous Result
Take a look at this result from Ascot Racecourse:
Key FAQs about the British Champions Long Distance Cup
Q: When is the British Champions Long Distance Cup held?
A: The race takes place annually in mid-October, as part of British Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse.
Q: How long is the British Champions Long Distance Cup?
A: The race is run over 2 miles (3,200 metres), making it one of the premier long-distance races in the UK flat racing calendar.
Q: What kind of horses run in the British Champions Long Distance Cup?
A: The race is open to elite thoroughbred stayers – horses known for their stamina and ability to perform well over extended distances.
Q: How does the Long Distance Cup compare to the Ascot Gold Cup?
A: While both races cater to stayers, the Ascot Gold Cup is a Group 1 race and is held over a longer distance of 2 miles and 4 furlongs. However, the Long Distance Cup is seen as a prestigious end-of-season contest for many of the same horses that compete in the Gold Cup.
Q: How can I bet on the British Champions Long Distance Cup?
A: Betting on the Long Distance Cup involves studying horses’ form over similar distances, looking at previous performances, and considering each horse’s stamina. Popular bet types include win bets, each-way bets, and forecast bets, where punters can predict the top two finishers.
Summary of British Champions Long Distance Cup
The British Champions Long Distance Cup is one of the most exciting and prestigious long-distance races in UK horse racing. Held at Ascot, this Group 2 event is a true test of endurance and stamina, with the finest stayers battling it out for glory on British Champions Day. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, this race offers plenty of thrilling action and betting opportunities.
As the UK’s leading expert on horse racing and betting, British Racecourses provides invaluable insights into the world of racing, helping punters make informed betting decisions on events like the Long Distance Cup.
Find out more about all the races at Ascots Champions Day:
