The Nassau Stakes and Diana Stakes are both prestigious turf races for fillies and mares. However, they have their key differences from each other.
While both have their marks on their respective countries’ horse racing industries, the key differences between them are quite obvious and worth celebrating, especially now that both events will be held soon, this month of July 2025. Let’s delve a little deeper into their comparison.
What is the Nassau Stakes?
The Nassau Stakes is a Group 1 almost mile and a quarter race run under Weight For Age conditions for the mares and fillies in Goodwood conducted by the Goodwood Race Course. The race started back in 1840 and was won by Rosa Bianca.
Initially, in 1840, the race only allowed 3-year-old fillies to run, but this rule was later changed, and older mares were also permitted to participate in 1975. Also, it was originally a Group 2 race, but then it was changed to Group 1 back in 1999. Not only that, but the original length was a mile and a quarter, but it was shortened in 1911.
The race itself is held during the Goodwood Festival in late July or early August, and it’s known as Glorious Goodwood. But why is it called the Nassau Stakes? The name Nassau is related to the association between the former owner of the Goodwood racecourse and the 5th Duke of Richmond, a member of the Royal Netherlands Family. Their house was called the House of Orange-Nassau. The Nassau Stakes is a follow-up race of Yorkshire Oaks and Falmouth Stakes.
What is the Diana Stakes?
The Diana Stakes was originally run on dirt. However, it was changed to turf back in 1974 due to the then-recent trend of horse racing being run on turf and the horse racing programs associated with it. Back then, the race was not graded, but it was elevated to Grade 1 status in 2003, making it one of the pinnacle events in American horse racing. Grade 1 races are considered important because they attract top-notch horses and offer a large amount of money.
Not only that, but it takes place at the iconic Saratoga Race Course—an arena rich in tradition and drama. Known as the Graveyard of Champions, this track has a reputation for unexpected outcomes that challenge even the strongest contenders. The Diana Stakes is no exception. With its 1 1/8-mile course, Saratoga’s layout pushes every entry to their limits, making each race a true test of stamina. That’s part of what makes Diana Stakes picks so intriguing for those looking to follow, or perhaps wager on the action.
For trainers and owners, the Diana Stakes is very important because of its inclusion in the Breeders’ Cup Challenge. This makes the race a “Win and You’re In” in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare, making the race very crucial for people who want to participate in the Breeders’ Cup and have a year-round championship.
How Do the Two Compare?
One of the most obvious comparisons between the two is that the Nassau Stakes is much older, dating back to the 19th century, reflecting its British roots. Because of this, it can be argued that the Nassau Stakes have a much richer history and cultural significance. On the other hand, the Diana Stakes is much younger. Still, it’s undeniable that it already has a crucial part in American horse racing because of its importance for Breeders’ Cup hopefuls.
When it comes to the race course itself, the Nassau Stakes is run over slightly longer distances compared to the Diana Stakes. While both of them can be classified as middle-distance turf races, each of them favors different types of horses when it comes to endurance and stamina.
For horses, the Nassau Stakes is more open, often allowing entries from other countries, including those in Europe and Asia, such as Japan. Meanwhile, the Diana Stakes only draws horses from North America. While that is the case, it also allows European horses, provided they are sent to the US for training for a certain period.
Final Words
July is here, which means the summer racing season is starting to heat up. That said, the Diana Stakes and Nassau Stakes are offering their brand of horse racing, with each of them from across the globe. If you’re captivated by the rich history and culture, the Nassau Stakes is for you. Or if you’re into excitement and thrill, the Diana Stakes will give you just that. However, it stands to matter that each of these races has its charms, which makes both of them worth watching and even betting on.
Read more:
Diana and Nassau Stakes: Comparing Top Turf Races for Fillies and Mares