The Classics are the crown jewels of British Flat racing;  five races that are considered the ultimate test of a generation of horses.

They are restricted to three year old colts and fillies and run over 3 different distances.

• The 1000 Guineas is run over 1 mile at Newmarket and is restricted to fillies.
• The 2000 Guineas is run over 1 mile at Newmarket and is open to both sexes but is usually contested by colts.
• The Oaks is run on Epsom Downs over 1 1/2 miles and is restricted to fillies.
• The Derby is also run at Epsom over 1 1/2 miles and is open to both sexes but is usually contested by colts.
• The St Leger is run at Doncaster over 1 mile and 6 1/2 furlongs. It is open to both sexes.

Fast Facts

• Victory over three different distances is known as the Triple Crown.
• The only horse to win four Classics outright was Sceptre who in 1902 won both Guineas, the Oaks and the St Leger.