Kennedy Mile – Formerly the Emirates Stakes - Saturday November 4th, 2017
1600m | Group 1 Handicap| Flemington Racecourse | Prize money: $1,000,000
Kennedy Mile (Emirates Stakes) General Information
The Group 1 Kennedy Mile (registered as the Cantala Stakes) is one of the premier Group races throughout the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival. It is held on the first day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, known as Derby Day.
The race is held over a distance of 1600m at the prestigious Flemington Racecourse and due to the race conditions being an open handicap, generally attracts a wide variety of runners. The prize purse for the race sits at $1 million with the winner taking home $600,000.
History of The Kennedy Miles (Cantala Stakes)
The race has had numerous name changes throughout its history, but the now Cantala Stakes was first held in 1881 under the name, The Coburg Stakes. The race was formerly held on the last day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, but in 2016 was moved to the first day.
Many champions have their name on the honour roll (despite the various name changes), including; Gunsynd, Better Loosen Up, Testa Rossa and Divine Madonna. So You Think was famously beaten here in 2009 as a short priced favourite, by All American.
Key Statistics of The Kennedy Miles (Emirates Stakes)
- Favourites have performed surprisingly poorly in the race, winning only 6 times since 1983
- Double figure chances have performed much better, winning 19 races since 1983
- Last start winners have proved successful, with 7 last start winners going on to win in the past 34 years
Past Winners The Kennedy Miles (Emirates Stakes)
| Year | Cantala Stakes Winners |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Le Romain |
| 2015 | Turn Me Loose |
| 2014 | Hucklebuck |
| 2013 | Boban |
| 2012 | Happy Trails |
| 2011 | Albert The Fat |
| 2010 | Wall Street |
| 2009 | All American |
| 2008 | All Silent |
| 2007 | Tears I Cry |
| 2006 | Divine Madonna |
Early Betting on The Kennedy Mile (Emirates Stakes)
Last year’s winner Le Romain sits atop the betting market in a wide-open edition of the race. Cult horse Black Heart Bart Is a main danger and Foxplay is also worth noting.
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