See the 2024 John Hawkes Stakes Preview and results.

See the 2023 D C McKay Stakes Preview and results.

See the 2022 D C McKay Stakes Preview and results.

The race was first held as a Principal Race over 6 furlongs (about 1200m) in 1968 when it was won by a horse called King Stephen. It became a Group 3 race in 1980 and is considered a lead-up race for the Group 1 The Goodwood held two weeks later. It was previously run on Australasian Oaks day but is now on Robert Sangster Stakes day.

In 2024 the name was changed from the D C McKay Stakes to the John Hawkes Stakes

Last mare to win: Sprightly Lass (2018)

Last 3YO to win: C&G – Super One (2016); Filly – Boardwalk Angel (1989)

Multiple winners: Savatoxl (2021 & 2023); Comaida Boy (1978 & 1979)

Fastest time (1100m): Streetcar Magic (2011) 1:02:10

Interesting trivia: There was a dead-heat in 2002 between Libidious and Windigo. In 2020 Jungle Edge was first across the line but was later disqualified.

Winners of past D.C. McKay Stakes include horses that go on to win major spring races.