Ajax Stakes

See the 2024 Ajax Stakes Preview and results.

See the 2023 Ajax Stakes Preview and results.

See the 2022 Ajax Stakes Preview and results.

The winner of the Ajax Stakes is exempt from the ballot and penalty for the Doncaster Mile at Randwick.

The Ajax Stakes was first held as a Principal race over 1200m in 1974 and was won by Tontonan. In 1979 the distance was increased to 1400m and it became a Listed race. In 1984 the distance increased to the current 1500m and it was upgraded to a Group 2 race. It has been known by a few different names – Sir Robert Askin Cup (1984), Diners’ Club Cup (1985-1991), Sydney Turf Club 50th Anniversary Stakes (1993), Konica Stakes (1996) and Parramatta League Club Stakes (1998 and 2000-2002) but all other years has had the original name. In 2006 it was upgraded to the current Group 2 status.

Last mare to win; Sea Pictures (1986)

Last 3YO to win: C&G – Niagara (2012); Filly – Lowan Star (1980)

Multiple winners: It’s Somewhat (2016 & 2017); Confiscate (1998 & 1999); Catalan Opening  (1996 & 1997)

Fastest time (1500m): Soho Square (1993) 1:27:3

Ajax Stakes & Doncaster Mile: It’s Somewhat (2017); Grand Armee (2003); Vite Cheval (1984); Tontonan (1974)

Interesting trivia: 1974 winner Tontonan carries 57.5 kg to win as a three-year-old.

Winners of past Ajax Stakes include horses that go on to Group 1 wins.