Lexington, KY – The Oct. 4th running of the Shadwell Turf Mile will mark the first time a stakes race at Keeneland will carry a seven-figure purse.
In partnership with Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Shadwell Farm, Keeneland announced the Grade 1 race, slated for its 29th running on Saturday, Oct. 4, will rank as one of North America’s richest races held at a mile on the turf.
“Shadwell Farm has played a very special role in Keeneland’s history for 30 years, actively supporting our racing program as both a sponsor and owner, and as a leading buyer at our sales,” said Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason.
The Shadwell Turf Mile serves as the cornerstone of Keeneland’s signature Fall Stars Weekend and is part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, with the winner automatically qualifying for the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1). The Shadwell Turf Mile has been won by such champions as Wise Dan, Gio Ponti (twice), Favorite Trick, Itsallgreektome and Steinlen (GB) and major stakes winners Court Vision, Thorn Song, Perfect Soul (IRE) and Landseer (GB).
Shadwell Farm has sponsored the Turf Mile, for horses 3 years old and older, since 1999. The purse was increased to $750,000 in 2012.
Keeneland’s Fall Meet opens the day before the Shadwell and runs through Saturday, Oct. 25th.