Sandown Classic Trial


History

The event was established in 1953, and it was originally called the Royal Stakes. The first running was won by Mountain King.
Ladbrokes became the sponsor of the race in 1971, and from this point it was known as the Ladbroke Classic Trial. It took place at Kempton Park in 1973.
Subsequent sponsors have included The Guardian, Thresher and Betfred. The online gambling company Bet365 took over the sponsorship in 2008.
The Sandown Classic Trial is staged during a two-day meeting which features both flat and jump races. Other events at the meeting include the Bet365 Gold Cup, the Celebration Chase, the Gordon Richards Stakes and the Sandown Mile.
The race can serve as a trial for the Epsom Derby. The most recent participant to win the Derby is Adayar, the 2021 runner-up.

Records

Leading jockey :
Leading trainer :
  • John Gosden – ''Pollen Count, True Hero, Linney Head, Santillana, Centennial, Azmeel, Western Hymn, Cunco, Sevenna Star ''

    Winners since 1960

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Earlier winners

  • 1953: Mountain King
  • 1954: Taw Valley
  • 1955: Peter Aegus
  • 1956: Pearl Orama
  • 1957: Sun Charger
  • 1958: Snow Cat
  • 1959: Casque