The Oddschecker King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes, commonly known as the King George, is a Group 1 flat horse race held annually at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. It is considered one of the most prestigious races in British flat racing and is often referred to as the “best flat race of the season.”
History
The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes was first run in 1951, replacing the Coronation Cup. It was named in honor of King George VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth. The race was initially run over a distance of 1 mile 4 furlongs (1 1/2 miles), but was shortened to 1 mile 3 1/2 furlongs in 1999.
The Race
The King George is a fiercely contested race with a field of typically 8-12 runners. It is run over a distance of 1 mile 3 1/2 furlongs (2,212 meters) on the straight course at Ascot. The race is worth £700,000 in prize money, making it one of the richest flat races in the world.
Key Facts
Distance: 1 mile 3 1/2 furlongs (2,212 meters)
Prize Money: £700,000
Grade: Group 1
Age Restrictions: 3-year-olds and upwards
Course: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, England
Date: Typically held on the last Saturday in July
Notable Winners
Some of the most famous horses to have won the King George include:
Mill Reef (1971)
Dahlia (1973, 1974)
Dancing Brave (1986)
Swain (1994)
Enable (2017, 2018)
Adayar (2021)
Oddschecker and the King George
Oddschecker is a leading online odds comparison website that provides up-to-date odds for a wide range of sporting events, including horse racing. The website is a valuable resource for punters looking to find the best odds on the King George.
Oddschecker also provides a wealth of information on the race, including:
Race previews: Expert analysis of the runners and riders
Latest odds: Up-to-date odds from all the major bookmakers
Form guides: Detailed form information on each runner
Race results: Results from previous runnings of the race
How to Bet on the King George
There are a number of ways to bet on the King George. The most popular bets include:
Win bet: Back a horse to win the race
Place bet: Back a horse to finish in the first three places
Each-way bet: A combination of a win bet and a place bet
Forecast bet: Predict the first two horses in the correct order
Tricast bet: Predict the first three horses in the correct order
Tips for Betting on the King George
Do your research: Read the race previews and form guides to get a better understanding of the runners and riders.
Compare odds: Use Oddschecker to compare odds from different bookmakers to ensure you are getting the best price.
Bet responsibly: Only bet what you can afford to lose.
The King George in 2023
The 2023 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes will be held on Saturday, 27th July. The race is expected to be a closely contested affair with a number of top-class horses set to compete.
FAQs
What is the significance of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
Established in 1951, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is Britain’s most prestigious open-age flat race. Its roll of honour features some of the most highly acclaimed horses in the sport’s history.
When and where is the 2025 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes scheduled?
The 2025 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is scheduled to take place in July at Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, England. The exact date will be confirmed closer to the event.
What is the prize fund for the 2025 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
Ascot Racecourse has announced that the 2025 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes will feature a record prize fund of £1.5 million, making it the richest race ever run at Ascot.
What is the ‘Run For Free’ initiative introduced for the 2025 race?
In 2025, the King George will become a ‘Run For Free’ race, meaning connections of all horses that run (except supplementary entries) will have their entry fees refunded in full. This initiative aims to encourage participation by reducing the financial burden on owners.
Who won the 2024 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
In 2024, Goliath, ridden by jockey Christophe Soumillon, secured victory in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. This win marked the first French-trained winner of the Group One race since 2006.
How can I access the latest odds for the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
For the most up-to-date odds on the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, platforms like Oddschecker provide comprehensive listings from various bookmakers. As the 2025 race approaches, these platforms will update their odds based on participating horses and prevailing conditions.
Are there any changes to the entry requirements for Royal Ascot Group 2 races in 2025?
Yes, Ascot Racecourse has removed the early closing entry requirements for four Group 2 races at the Royal Meeting that previously closed in April. These races are the Ribblesdale Stakes, the King Edward VII Stakes, the Duke of Cambridge Stakes, and the Hardwicke Stakes. This change allows connections to make later, better-informed decisions about entering and running their horses.
How does the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes impact the international racing calendar?
The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is a pivotal race in the international racing calendar, often influencing rankings and breeding valuations. Winners and notable performers frequently participate in other major races worldwide, enhancing their global reputation.
What is the historical significance of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
The race was formed by merging two separate events at Ascot, established in 1946 and 1948, respectively. The inaugural running of the combined race took place on 21 July 1951. Over the years, it has been won by some of the most celebrated horses in racing history, solidifying its status as a premier event in the sport.
How can enthusiasts stay updated on the latest developments regarding the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?
To stay informed about the latest news, updates, and developments related to the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, enthusiasts should regularly visit the official Ascot Racecourse website and reputable horse racing news outlets. These platforms provide timely information on entries, odds, race conditions, and other pertinent details as the event approaches.
To conclude
The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes stands as a testament to the rich heritage and enduring appeal of British horse racing. With its storied history, significant prize fund, and the introduction of initiatives like ‘Run For Free,’ the 2025 edition promises to be a landmark event. As the racing world converges on Ascot Racecourse in July, enthusiasts and participants alike can look forward to witnessing top-tier competition, strategic prowess, and the crowning of a new champion in this illustrious race.
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