What is the Stephen Foster Stakes?
The Stephen Foster Stakes is a Grade 1 thoroughbred horse race held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Named after the famed composer Stephen Foster, the race covers a distance of 1 1/8 miles on dirt and is open to horses aged three and older. The race is part of the Breeders' Cup Challenge series, making it especially relevant for online horse betting enthusiasts.
When is the Stephen Foster Stakes in 2025?
The Stephen Foster Stakes will take place on June 28th. This prestigious Grade 1 race is a highlight of the summer racing season and attracts top horses from around the country. It's a significant event for those interested in online horse betting.
Stephen Foster Stakes Winners
Notable winners of the Stephen Foster Stakes include greats like Gun Runner, who won in 2017, and Tom's d'Etat, who triumphed in 2020. These champions have solidified the race's reputation as a proving ground for top-tier talent, making it a focal point for those following online horse betting trends.
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | Owner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Mindframe | Irad Ortiz, Jr. | Todd A. Pletcher | Repole Stable and St. Elias Stables LLC. | 1:47.48 |
| 2024 | Kingsbarns | Luis Saez | Todd A. Pletcher | Spendthrift Farm | 1:48.09 |
| 2023 | West Will Power | Flavien Prat | Brad H. Cox | Gary & Mary West | 1:47.93 |
| 2022 | Olympiad | Junior Alvarado | William I. Mott | Grandview Equine, Cheyenne Stables & LNJ Foxwoods | 1:47.66 |
| 2021 | Maxfield | Jose L. Ortiz | Brendan P. Walsh | Godolphin | 1:48.53 |
| 2020 | Tom's d'Etat | Miguel Mena | Albert Stall Jr. | G M B Racing | 1:47.30 |
This race serves as a key prep race for the Breeders' Cup Classic. This means that the winner of the Stephen Foster Stakes earns an automatic berth into the Breeders' Cup Classic, making it a crucial event for 3-year-olds thoroughbreds.
