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Sussex Stakes the target for Saudi Cup hero Panthalassa

Horse Racing | Press Article 17/04/24

Last year’s Dubai Turf (G1) and this year’s Saudi Cup (G1) winner Panthalassa is on course to line up in this year’s Qatar Sussex Stakes (G1) on Wednesday 2 August as part of the 2023 Qatar Goodwood Festival.

Panthalassa has already earned over £11.6 million in prize money in a glittering globetrotting career which has seen him dead heat with Lord North in last year’s Dubai Turf before delivering a famous victory for Japan in the Saudi Cup in February.

After finishing down the field in the Dubai World Cup, Panthalassa returned to Japan for a break and his connections have announced Goodwood could be his next target.

Panthalassa’s trainer Yoshihito Yahagi believes that Goodwood’s track will suit the son of Lord Kanaloa. He said: “I had the idea of a mile race. Last year, Bathrat Leon finished 4th in Sussex Stakes, so it was a decision based on the characteristics of the race.”

Japan are no strangers to big race success at Goodwood. Deirdre stormed to victory in the Qatar Nassau Stakes (G1) under Oisin Murphy in 2019.

Depending on how he comes out of the Sussex Stakes, the Juddmonte International Stakes (G1) later in August could also be on his agenda.

Ed Arkell, Director of Racing at Goodwood is excited about the prospect of Panthalassa running at Goodwood. He said: “We are delighted that the connections of Panthalassa are targeting the Qatar Sussex Stakes. Japanese horses are playing an ever-increasing part in the major races around the world so it will be exciting to have a horse of Panthalassa’s ability at the Qatar Goodwood Festival and underlines the global appeal of the meeting.:

Arkell continued: “The Hiroo Race Co. and Mr Yahagi had a sighting shot at the Sussex Stakes last season with a creditable fourth for Bathrat Leon, so they know what is required to be competitive in the race. We very much look forward to welcoming them to Goodwood in August.”

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Notes for Editors:

About Goodwood Racecourse

The first fixture, Season Opener comes under starters orders with two days packed full of behind- the- scenes content providing a fantastic insight into the sport of horse racing alongside fitting celebrations for the Coronation. The tempo continues with Family Raceday, where themed attractions for all the ages include free fairground rides, face-painting, a traditional carousel, and high-octane pony racing. Plus, those under 18's go free!

After ten unforgettable years of racing and DJs at our sell-out Three Friday Nights fixtures in June, it's time to mix it up in 2023. Watch this space for immersive and theatrical DJ sets as Goodwood takes Three Friday Nights to the next level, it is guaranteed to set the pulses racing.

Home of the flagship Qatar Goodwood Festival, Goodwood Racecourse's famous five-day meeting from the 1 - 5 August presents a spellbinding sporting and social occasion like no other. Live music meets sensational style with a plethora of equine superstars, all looking to be crowned on the world stage, as well as the return of the inspirational Markel Magnolia Cup

Featuring no less than 13 Group races, including the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup, the Qatar Sussex Stakes, often referred to as the 'Duel on the Downs', and the cavalry charge that is the Coral Stewards' Cup, it's the place to be seen. Off the track, Tuesday's Lord Taverners Twenty20 cricket match and Friday's much anticipated L'Ormarins best-dressed competition showcase on a fabulous supporting card.

August Bank Holiday Weekend starts with a bang as the popular Friday night fireworks display brings an explosion of colour set to music before a relaxing weekend that combines live music and free summer entertainment for a wonderfully social occasion. A duo of Midweek Racing fixtures across September culminates in a fitting curtain closer for Season Finale, where seasonal entertainment features toasting marshmallows and hog roasts.

Tickets, dining, and hospitality are now on sale for the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Visit Goodwood.com or call 01243 755055 to find out more.

 

For editorial enquiries please contact:

Emma Chamings, Goodwood Racecourse Press Office; emma@jsccomms.co.uk