Prix de la Nonette
History
The event was established in 1952, and it was originally held at Longchamp. It was named after the Nonette, a tributary of the Oise in northern France.The race was initially contested over 2,200 metres. It was run over 2,400 metres in 1959 and 1960, and shortened to 2,100 metres in 1961.
The Prix de la Nonette was transferred to Deauville and cut to 2,000 metres in 1980. It has continued at this venue with the exception of two periods, 1984–85 and 1989–91, when it took place at Longchamp.
The race was formerly classed at Group 3 level, and it was sponsored by Darley from 2005 to 2010. It was promoted to Group 2 status and backed by Shadwell in 2011.
The Prix de la Nonette sometimes serves as a trial for the following month's Prix Vermeille. The first horse to win both contests was Lezghinka in 1960, and the most recent was Pearly Shells in 2002.
Records
Leading jockey :
- Freddy Head – Hecuba, Pistol Packer, Detroit, Fitnah, Grafin, Matiara
- Gérald Mossé - Karmiska, River Nymph, Shemaka, Zainta, Dream Peace, Rumi
Leading trainer :
- André Fabre – Sierra Roberta, Colour Chart, Luna Wells, Diamilina, Grey Lilas, Tashelka, Romantica, Tasaday
Leading owner :
- HH Aga Khan IV – Sharaya, Shemaka, Zainta
- Jean-Luc Lagardère – Karmiska, Luna Wells, Diamilina
- Sheikh Mohammed – Colour Chart, Grafin, Tashelka
Winners since 1979
Bint Salsabil and Bint Shadayid finished first and second in 1996, but the race was awarded to the third-placed horse.2023 race run as Prix Alec Head
2024 race run as Prix Alec Head
Earlier winners
- 1952: Harbour Grace
- 1953: Gourabe
- 1954: Chimere Fabuleuse
- 1955: Anne
- 1956: Yasmin
- 1957: Denisy
- 1958: Djelouba
- 1959: Matchiche
- 1960: Lezghinka
- 1961: La Bergerette
- 1962: Salinas
- 1963: Royal Girl
- 1964:
- 1965: Tinganeve
- 1966: Bubunia
- 1967: Silver Cloud
- 1968: Pola Bella
- 1969: Hecuba
- 1970: Popkins
- 1971: Pistol Packer
- 1972: Rescousse
- 1973: Gay Style
- 1974: Paulista
- 1975: Ivanjica
- 1976: Theia
- 1977: Kamicia
- 1978: Tempus Fugit