Ascot Vale Stakes

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The Coolmore Stud Stakes (aka Ascot Vale Stakes) is a Group 1 racing event held annually on Victoria Derby Day at Flemington racecourse in late October. It is held on the same day as three other Group 1 races in the Victoria Derby, Mackinnon Stakes and Myer Classic. The race itself is worth $500,000 in prize money and is open to 3-year-olds at set weights conditions over a distance of 1200 metres.

It has been raced since 1969 and was a Group 2 race in the years 1979-2005, with the race being upgraded to Group 1 status in 2006. Notable winners include Weekend Hussler, Gold Edition, Alinghi, Encosta De Lago, Our Maizcay, Racer’s Edge, Kaapstad, Rose Of Kingston and Manikao. The last filly to win the race was Gold Edition in 2006, overall 8 fillies have won the race.

The Blue Diamond Stakes and Golden Slipper, both Autumn races, have been the best guide for the Coolmore Stud Stakes over the years. The Blue Diamond Stakes was won this year by Reward For Effort ahead of Real Saga and Maka Ena. The Golden Slipper was taken out by Phelan Ready ahead of Headway and Manhattan Rain.