The Central Moscow Hippodrome racecourse, 5 kilometres north-west of Red Square in the capital of Russia hosts all of the major Russian races. The left handed sand track has a perimeter of 9 furlongs, staging meetings from May until September, while In late September it plays host to the Russian Breeders Cup Final. Racing was first introduced in Russia as early as 1834, although the well-regarded grandstand was built in the three year period between 1896 and 1899. Prior to World War I racing was very popular in Russia, but immediately after the end of the War racing ceased between 1918 and 1921. The President of Russia Federation Stakes over 2400 metres was launched in June 2004, but was increased by 400 metres in 2007 when held at Pyatigorsk racecourse. The 2008 event was held on 18th July and was won by Monomakh who defeated both Bronze Cannon and Lake Poet to claim the lion's share of the £135,000 prize fund. In August 2009 the Champion Sprint Stakes for 3 year olds was held at the course and proved to be a triumph for Atlantic Wave. In 2011 the President of Russia Federation Stakes over 2400 metres was staged at Kazan International Equestrian Centre when Korol was successful. |
