St. Simon Stakes

As the British flat racing season draws to a close each October, Newbury Racecourse hosts one of its most esteemed events: the St. Simon Stakes.

This Group 3 race, which covers a distance of 1 mile 4 furlongs (2,414 metres), is named after the legendary 19th-century thoroughbred St. Simon. Attracting top-class horses three years old and older, the St. Simon Stakes offers a fitting conclusion to the autumn racing calendar.

Find out more about the St. Simon Stakes:

The Heritage of St. Simon Stakes

Established in 1968, the St. Simon Stakes has become an integral part of the late-season racing circuit. The race takes its name from St. Simon, a racehorse who never lost a race during his undefeated career in the late 1800s. Known for his unmatched stamina and exceptional lineage, St. Simon left an indelible mark on British horse racing, making it only fitting that one of the country’s standout races should bear his name.

Newbury Racecourse, with its rich racing heritage, provides an ideal setting for this prestigious event. The St. Simon Stakes often attracts horses that have competed in higher Group-level races earlier in the season, making it a high-stakes contest for owners, trainers, and punters alike.

Who Can Compete in the St. Simon Stakes?

The St. Simon Stakes is open to thoroughbreds aged three years or older, giving younger horses a chance to compete against more experienced rivals. The race is run over 1 mile 4 furlongs, a challenging distance that tests both speed and stamina.

As a Group 3 race, the St. Simon Stakes sits within the mid-tier of British flat racing but frequently draws entries from horses with Group 1 and 2 form. It often serves as an autumn target for horses winding down after a busy summer season. With autumn conditions in play, the race can be influenced by softer ground, adding another layer of complexity to the event.

St. Simon Stakes Previous Winners

Why is the St. Simon Stakes So Important?

For trainers and owners, the St. Simon Stakes represents an opportunity to end the flat racing season on a high. Horses that perform well here often go on to future success, or they might use it as a stepping stone to races in the following year. Additionally, this race is a great opportunity for punters looking to back strong autumn performers who can handle the longer distance and potentially softer ground.

Beyond its practical importance, the St. Simon Stakes carries considerable prestige. Its connection to a horse as revered as St. Simon cements its standing in British racing culture. Victory in the race is a significant accomplishment for any horse and trainer.

Recent Winners and Notable Performances

Some notable horses have won the St. Simon Stakes in recent years, underlining the quality of competition this race draws. In 2022, Max Vega, a horse trained by Ralph Beckett, secured victory. Past winners have included highly-rated horses that have gone on to further Group-level successes, highlighting the St. Simon Stakes as a key event in the racing calendar.

St. Simon Stakes Previous Result

Take a look at this result from Newbury Racecourse:

FAQs about the St. Simon Stakes

Q: What is the distance of the St. Simon Stakes?
A: The race is run over 1 mile 4 furlongs (2,414 metres), making it a test of both speed and stamina for thoroughbreds aged three years and older.

Q: When does the St. Simon Stakes take place?
A: The St. Simon Stakes takes place in late October, towards the end of the British flat racing season.

Q: What type of race is the St. Simon Stakes?
A: The St. Simon Stakes is a Group 3 flat race, meaning it sits within the mid-tier of British horse racing’s grading system. It often attracts high-quality entries from experienced horses.

Q: Where is the St. Simon Stakes held?
A: The race is held annually at Newbury Racecourse.

Q: What age group can enter the St. Simon Stakes?
A: The race is open to horses aged three years or older, meaning it often features a mix of younger horses and experienced campaigners.

Q: Why is the St. Simon Stakes named after St. Simon?
A: The race is named after the legendary 19th-century thoroughbred St. Simon, who was undefeated during his racing career and is regarded as one of the greatest horses in British racing history.

Summary of St. Simon Stakes

Thank you for reading our St. Simon Stakes guide.

Check out our guides to all the other Group 3 horse races.

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