Flying Five Stakes

The Flying Five Stakes, hosted at the historic Curragh Racecourse in Ireland, is one of the most thrilling sprint races in the international horse racing calendar. As experts in horse racing betting, we at British Racecourses bring you an in-depth look at this prestigious event, including its history, key facts, betting tips, and the best horses and jockeys to watch.

Every year in September, it is held at the Curragh over a distance of 5 furlongs as part of Irish Champions Weekend.

Find out more about the Flying Five Stakes:

What is the Flying Five Stakes?

The Flying Five Stakes is a Group 1 flat horse race run over a distance of five furlongs (1,006 metres) at The Curragh, one of Ireland’s premier racecourses. It is open to horses aged three years and older and is a key fixture during the Irish Champions Weekend, held annually in September.

A Brief History of the Flying Five Stakes

Established in 1983, the Flying Five Stakes has evolved from a Listed race to one of the top sprint races in Europe. The race was upgraded to Group 3 in 1988, then to Group 2 in 2002, and finally to its current Group 1 status in 2018. This progression reflects the race’s growing importance in the horse racing world, attracting some of the best sprinters from Ireland, the UK, and beyond.

The Curragh Racecourse: Home of the Flying Five

Located in County Kildare, The Curragh Racecourse is synonymous with Irish horse racing heritage. Known for its flat, straight track, it offers ideal conditions for sprinters to showcase their speed and agility. The Curragh is also home to other prestigious races, including the Irish Derby and the Irish 1,000 and 2,000 Guineas, making it a centrepiece of the Irish racing calendar.

Key Facts About the Flying Five Stakes

• Race Type: Flat / Thoroughbred
• Distance: 5 furlongs (1,006 metres)
• Surface: Turf
• Track: Straight
• Eligible Horses: Three years old and upwards
• Date: September, during the Irish Champions Weekend

Flying Five Stakes Betting Tips

When betting on the Flying Five Stakes, consider the following tips from our experts:

1. Focus on Proven Sprinters: Look for horses that have demonstrated speed and consistency over five furlongs. Horses that have performed well in similar Group 1 races like the Prix de l’Abbaye at Longchamp or the King’s Stand Stakes at Ascot often do well here.
2. Watch the Ground Conditions: The Curragh’s straight track can be affected by the weather, making ground conditions crucial. Some sprinters prefer firmer ground, while others excel on softer going. Always check the ground conditions closer to the race day.
3. Jockey and Trainer Form: The combination of a skilled jockey and an experienced trainer can make all the difference. Look for jockeys with a good record at The Curragh and trainers who specialise in sprint races.

Notable Winners of the Flying Five Stakes

Over the years, the Flying Five Stakes has seen some remarkable winners who have gone on to achieve further success in their careers:

• Etoile de Mer (1983): The first-ever winner of the Flying Five Stakes.
• Sole Power (2015): A legendary sprinter with multiple Group 1 victories.
• Glass Slippers (2020): A top-class mare who won the race and went on to win the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint.

Why is the Flying Five Stakes Important?

The Flying Five Stakes is not just another race; it is a key part of the sprint division in Europe. With its Group 1 status, it serves as a vital stepping stone to other major sprint races. Winners of this race often compete in the British Champions Sprint Stakes and the Prix de l’Abbaye, making it a pivotal race for horses, trainers, and owners targeting a sprinting career.

FAQs About the Flying Five Stakes

Q: When is the Flying Five Stakes held?
A: The Flying Five Stakes is held in September during the Irish Champions Weekend at The Curragh Racecourse.

Q: What distance is the Flying Five Stakes?
A: The race is run over a distance of five furlongs (1,006 metres).

Q: Which horses are eligible to race in the Flying Five Stakes?
A: The race is open to horses aged three years and older.

Q: Why is the Flying Five Stakes considered a Group 1 race?
A: The Flying Five Stakes was elevated to Group 1 status in 2018 due to its significance in the sprint division and its ability to attract top-tier horses.

Q: How do I bet on the Flying Five Stakes?
A: You can place your bets on the Flying Five Stakes with British Racecourses, your trusted horse racing betting site. Look for our expert tips and odds closer to the race day.

Flying Five Stakes Previous Winners Tabele

Check out the previous winners below:

Flying Five Stakes Previous Result

Check out this result from the Curragh Racecourse:

Summary of Flying Five Stakes

Thank you for reading our Flying Five Stakes guide.

The Flying Five Stakes at The Curragh is a must-watch for any horse racing enthusiast. Its history, prestige, and the calibre of horses it attracts make it one of the most exciting races of the year. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, keep an eye on this race for thrilling finishes and potential stars of the sprinting world.

Check out our guides to all the other Irish Group 1 horse races.

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