What is the Blue Grass Stakes?
The Blue Grass Stakes is a Grade I thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds, held annually at Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, Kentucky. This event covers a distance of 1 1/8 miles and serves as a key prep race for the Kentucky Downs, making it a popular fixture in online horse betting. The 2026 edition is set to take place in April, continuing its long-standing tradition since 1937.
When is the Blue Grass Stake held?
The 2026 Blue Grass Stakes will take place on April 8th instead of April 5th (Delayed due to bad weather conditions). This date is significant as it positions the race as one of the final prep races before the Kentucky Derby.
Blue Grass Stakes Winners
The Blue Grass Stakes has a long history of notable winners. Legendary horses like Northern Dancer (1964), who went on to win the Kentucky Derby, and Spectacular Bid (1979), a horse often ranked among the greatest in racing history, have claimed victory here.
Other standout champions include Skip Away (1996) and Strike the Gold (1991), both of whom made an impact on the Triple Crown circuit. These older winners highlight the enduring prestige of the race, contributing to its significance in horse racing.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| 2025 | Burnham Square | Brian Joseph Hernandez Jr. | 1:51.33 |
| 2024 | Wynstock | Kyle Frey | 1:50.51 |
| 2023 | Reincarnate | Juan J. Hernandez | 1:48.72 |
| 2022 | High Connection | Juan J. Hernandez | 1:48.98 |
| 2021 | Classier | Mike E. Smith | 1:49.15 |
| 2020 | Uncle Chuck | Luis Saez | 1:47.65 |
The Blue Grass Stakes is one of the most significant events on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Horses that perform well in this race often go on to be leading favorites in the Kentucky Derby, making it a highly anticipated event for both racing fans and bettors alike.
