Sapphire Stakes: A Premier Group 2 Sprint at The Curragh
The Sapphire Stakes is a prestigious Group 2 flat horse race that showcases the speed and agility of elite Thoroughbreds. Held annually in July at the historic Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare, Ireland, this event is a highlight of the Irish sprinting calendar, attracting top-tier competitors aged three years and older.
Contested over a distance of 5 furlongs (approximately 1,006 metres) on a straight turf track, the race is a pure test of raw pace. Its evolution from a local listed event to a Group 2 contest reflects the increasing quality of the fields it attracts.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Location: Curragh Racecourse, County Kildare, Ireland.
- Classification: Group 2 Flat race.
- Distance: 5 furlongs (1,006 metres) on a straight turf track.
- Eligibility: Thoroughbreds aged three years and older.
- Timing: Scheduled annually in July during the Irish Oaks meeting.
- Inauguration: Established in 2001.
History and Evolution
The race was inaugurated in 2001 and began its life at the Listed level. In its early years, the event was known as the Richard H. Faught Memorial Stakes. As the quality of the competition grew, the race was renamed the Sapphire Stakes and promoted to Group 3 status in 2008.
The race reached its current Group 2 status in 2015. Along with this promotion, the scheduling of the event shifted; while it was originally part of the three-day Irish Derby Festival, it was moved in 2015 to the Irish Oaks meeting. It is now traditionally held on the second day of that meeting, immediately following the Irish Oaks.
Race Specifications and Purse
The Sapphire Stakes employs a specific weighting system to ensure fair competition among different ages and genders. Three-year-olds carry 9 st 3 lb, while horses aged four and older carry 9 st 7 lb. To balance the field, fillies and mares receive a 3 lb allowance. Additionally, horses that have won a Group 1 race since November 1 of the previous year incur a 3 lb penalty.
In 2020, the total purse for the event was €75,200, with the winner taking home €47,200.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Race Type | Flat / Thoroughbred |
| Surface | Turf (Straight) |
| Distance | 5f (1,006m) |
| Age Qualification | 3yo+ |
| Current Group Status | Group 2 |
Past Winners and Notable Champions
Over the decades, the Sapphire Stakes has been won by some of the fastest horses in training. Recent winners include Cover Up in 2026, Arizona Blaze in 2025, and Believing in 2024. Other notable champions include Art Power (2023), Ladies Church (2022), and Mooneista, who secured victory in 2021.
Looking further back, the race has seen dominant performances from horses like A'ali (2020), Soffia (2019), and Havana Grey (2018). The early 2000s were marked by the success of horses such as Benbaun, who won multiple times between 2005 and 2009, and Osterhase, a frequent contender and winner between 2003 and 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sapphire Stakes held?
The race takes place at the Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare, Ireland.
What is the distance of the race?
The race is a sprint covering 5 furlongs, which is equivalent to 1,006 metres.
Which horses are eligible to compete?
The race is open to Thoroughbreds that are three years of age or older.
When does the race typically take place?
It is scheduled every year in July, specifically on the second day of the Irish Oaks meeting.
How has the race's status changed over time?
It started as a Listed race in 2001, became a Group 3 race in 2008, and was finally promoted to Group 2 status in 2015.