Elkhorn Stakes

What is the Elkhorn Stakes?

The VisitLEX Elkhorn Stakes is a Grade II Thoroughbred race held annually at Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, Kentucky. Run at 1½ miles on the turf for horses aged four and older, it is one of the premier long-distance turf races in North America and the standout test for thoroughbred stayers at Keeneland each spring. First run in 1986, the race is named for Elkhorn Creek, the historic stream that runs through several Central Kentucky counties and was once Lexington's primary water source. It has carried Grade II status since 2008 and is sponsored by VisitLEX, Lexington's destination marketing organization.

When is the Elkhorn Stakes in 2026?

The 2026 VisitLEX Elkhorn Stakes is scheduled for Saturday, April 18 at Keeneland, with a purse of $400,000. The race draws international talent alongside top domestic turf horses and regularly attracts runners trained by Charlie Appleby, William Mott, and other leading conditioners of distance turf horses.

Elkhorn Stakes History & Notable Winners

The Elkhorn Stakes has a distinguished history featuring some of the best turf stayers to race in North America. The legendary Channel Maker set the current course record of 2:27.10 when winning the 2022 edition under Luis Saez at age eight, making him one of the oldest winners in the race's history. Godolphin's Silver Knott (GB) followed in 2024 under Flavien Prat for trainer Charlie Appleby, continuing a pattern of international excellence in the race. Utah Beach gave trainer Ignacio Correas a memorable 2025 score under French jockey Vincent Cheminaud.

Last Updated on 04/15/2026

The VisitLEX Elkhorn Stakes is a highlight of the Keeneland Spring Meet and one of the most important long-distance turf tests on the American calendar each April.