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Mark your calendars for a thrilling day of top-tier horse racing action at the Qipco British Champions Day on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Ascot. This prestigious event, known for its six exhilarating races, showcases the cream of the crop in horse racing, including the much-anticipated Qipco Champion Stakes.
The day kicks off with the Group 2 Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at 1.15 pm and concludes with the Balmoral Handicap at 4.25 pm. Here’s a closer look at the schedule and what to expect from each race.
Contents
- 1 Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup (1.15 pm, 2m)
- 2 Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes (1.50pm, 6f)
- 3 Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes (2.25pm, 1m4f)
- 4 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (3.05 pm, 1m)
- 5 Qipco Champion Stakes (3.45 pm, 1m2f)
- 6 Balmoral Handicap (4.25pm, 1m)
- 7 Conclusion: Champions Day Ascot 2023 schedule
Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup (1.15 pm, 2m)
The day’s racing action commences with the Group 2 Long Distance Cup. The race, covering a distance of two miles, has been a stage for outstanding performances in the past, with Trueshan clinching victory for a remarkable third successive time last year. This year’s competition is poised to feature a strong field, making it an exciting opener for the day.
Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes (1.50pm, 6f)
Following the Long Distance Cup, the Sprint Stakes, a Group 1 race covering six furlongs, takes center stage. Last year, it was Kinross who emerged victorious with the legendary jockey Frankie Dettori aboard. Dettori, set to make his farewell appearance in British racing on this day, adds an extra layer of intrigue to this year’s race.
Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes (2.25pm, 1m4f)
The excitement continues with the Fillies & Mares Stakes, another Group 1 event over one mile and four furlongs. Last year’s race saw the impressive Emily Upjohn, the Coronation Cup heroine, crossing the finish line first, and the competition this year is bound to be fierce, with top-class fillies and mares vying for the title.
Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (3.05 pm, 1m)
The Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, yet another top-level event, takes the spotlight next. Last year, it was the Roger Varian-trained Bayside Boy who clinched victory, and with a strong lineup expected, this one-mile race is sure to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Qipco Champion Stakes (3.45 pm, 1m2f)
The feature race of the day, the Qipco Champion Stakes, unfolds over one mile and two furlongs. Last year, it was Bay Bridge, trained by Sir Michael Stoute and ridden by Richard Kingscote, who narrowly defeated Derby hero Adayar. With a rich history and a notable list of past champions, the race is a pinnacle of British Champions Day, promising high-stakes action.
Balmoral Handicap (4.25pm, 1m)
The day’s racing extravaganza concludes with the Balmoral Handicap. Last year, Shelir, trained by David O’Meara, pulled off a stunning upset at 80-1 odds. As the final event on the card, the Balmoral Handicap is the last chance for competitors to etch their names into the annals of British Champions Day 2023.
Conclusion: Champions Day Ascot 2023 schedule
The Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot is a pinnacle of horse racing excellence. The 2023 edition, laden with top-notch races and seasoned competitors, is set to offer an unforgettable experience to racing aficionados. So, mark the date and prepare to be part of a historic day of thoroughbred racing action.
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