The Group 1 Sprint Cup – bringing excitement to Haydock Park since 1966
Haydock Park, England, is the place to be every September. It has all the perks it needs for a decent vacation, but enthusiasts of horse-racing can go there and have the time of their lives.
The reason for this is the Sprint Cup that has been taking place annually, since 1966.
With some of the best horses, this event takes place over a distance of six furlongs on turf, exclusive for three-year-old and older fillies’. As of 2011, the prestigious race holds a purse £225,000 and is home to some of the best runners.
The idea of the six furlong race was suggested by Robert Sangster, who later became a renowned racehorse owner and breeder.
This grand-event was sponsored by the Vernons Pools and was hosted in November. Since 1966, several rules have changed over the course of time. This race was initially open to horses that were of age two or older.
The Vernons Sprint Cup was moved to September in 1979, and to the six furlong straight track in 1986.
The status of this race increased when it was promoted to the Group 1 status in 1988. Currently, this mega event is under the sponsorship of Betfred.
The race has been tricky from the day it began, and no horse has won it twice, except, Be Friendly trained by Cyril Mitchell, who claimed it in 1966 and the year that followed.
Four jockeys share the honours of the most victories in this race, and each of them sport three victories each. It was Lester Piggott who won with Green God in 1971, Abergwaun in 1972, and Moorestyle in 1980.
Pat Eddery won with Record Token in 1976, Dowsing in 1988 and Danehill in 1989. Willie Carson won with Boldboy in 1977, Habibti in 1983, Dayjur in 1990, whereas Bruce Raymond claimed the prestigious title with Runnett in 1981, Petong in 1984, and Sheikh
Albadou in 1992.
Handler John Dunlop had saddled the most victories over the years with Runnett, Habibti, Lavinia Fontana and in 2002 with Invincible Spirit.
Last year, victory belonged to Dream Ahead, who was ridden by William Buick and represented trainer David Simcock. He claimed the victory by defeating, Bated Breath, by a nose.
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