Sussex Stakes: The historic summer race that will have racing fans excited

Horse Racing :: Everything Horse

There are many different events on the horse racing calendar that will appeal to fans, and we will all have our own favourites.

For some, it will be the history that comes with the Grand National, whilst others will prefer the Cheltenham festival and the days of non-stop action that they offer. Yet, another standout festival is Glorious Goodwood, and whether you are a casual fan or someone who is always searching for up to date horse racing results, the chances are that you know all about the Sussex Stakes, which is the most prestigious race at the picturesque venue.

A reason for that is that it has an illustrious history, with the first version of the event being run way back in 1841. Although, initially it was a 6-furlong race for two-year-olds and it was not considered the best race at the festival, but that changed in 1878 when it switched to a 1-mile race for three-year-olds. And, it’s that modified race that is one punters will be accustomed to nowadays, even if horses aged five and over can now compete.

As a result, it is not only the most renowned race at Glorious Goodwood but also a race that is highly regarded in all racing circles – and it’s easy to see why when you look at some of the names that have been associated with it in the past.

Arguably the most iconic horse to emerge victorious was the legendary Frankel, who won the Group One race in 2011. Of course, Frankel is regarded as one of the best racehorses ever, and the win in ’11 helped establish that reputation after the classy Canford Cliffs was beaten, with Frankel starting as slight favourite. It was a different story a year later when the horse, ridden by Tom Queally, started at an incredible 1/20 and justified those odds by breezing home – becoming the only horse to win the race twice.

That gave the well-respected Sir Henry Cecil his seventh, and last, winner as a trainer in the Sussex Stakes, meaning he leads the way when it comes to helping winners at this particular race.

Frankel isn’t the only notable winner of this race though, with Brigadier Gerard, Giant’s Causeway and Rock Of Gibraltar other celebrated names to scoop the top prize.

All of this combines to make the Sussex Stakes one of the most popular races out there and the significant prize money available, with Too Darn Hot ridden by Frankie Dettori scooping owner Lord Lloyd Webber almost £600,000 for the win in 2019, ensures the high-profile figures will continue to participate. Therefore, all eyes will already be on the race coming up later this year, with Siskin currently installed as favourite in the latest racing tips ahead of this prestigious event.

Obviously, we don’t know how it will play out, but whoever does cross the line first will be joining a list of historic names to have won the Sussex Stakes over the years.