What is the First Lady Stakes?
The First Lady Stakes is a prestigious Grade I American Thoroughbred horse race held annually at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky. The race is open to fillies and mares aged three years and older and is contested over a distance of 1 mile on turf.
When is the 2026 First Lady Stakes?
The 2026 First Lady Stakes is scheduled to take place on October 4th.
First Lady Stakes Winners
Some notable winners of the First Lady Stakes include Tepin, who won in 2015, and Uni, who won in 2019. Their victories have helped solidify the race’s reputation for showcasing elite turf mares and future champions.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Simply in Front | Ben Curtis | Eddie Kenneally | 1:34.76 |
| 2024 | Gina Romantica | Jose L. Ortiz | Chad C. Brown | 1:33.80 |
| 2023 | Gina Romantica | Tyler Gaffalione | Chad C. Brown | 1:33.70 |
| 2022 | In Italian | Joel Rosario | Chad C. Brown | 1:33.22 |
| 2021 | Blowout | Flavien Prat | Chad C. Brown | 1:34.86 |
| 2020 | Uni | Joel Rosario | Chad C. Brown | 1:34.90 |
The race was originally inaugurated as the Galaxy Stakes and was renamed the First Lady Stakes in 2006. Over the years, it has evolved in both prestige and competitive quality, reflecting the increasing depth of talent in female turf racing.
