Boodles Chester Vase Stakes (Group 3) (3yo Colts & Geldings)
Date: 6 May 2026
Course: Chester
Type: Flat
Distance: 1m 4½f (1m 4f 63y)
🚫 Race Overview
This Group 3 event at Chester is run over a middle distance with an extra ½ furlong on top of one and a half miles. The going is good, which should suit horses who handle firm but not overly hard ground. The race often acts as a stepping stone for three-year-old colts and geldings with aspirations toward longer races at the top level later in the season. Inside stalls mean a keen break could be important, and the track’s tight nature will test both stamina and balance.
⭐ Key Runners
Benvenuto Cellini Strong Form
Showed an impressive performance in a Group 2 race over 1 mile at Leopardstown last September and followed up with a solid third place in a Group 1 on heavy ground. Exhibits proven class at this distance and conditions.
Del Maro Winning Reappearance
Opened his account on the first run of the season. Best form came as a two-year-old when finishing third in a Group 3 over 1 mile 2 furlongs at Newmarket, indicating suitability for this distance.
Mr Colonel Staying Prospect
Finished just over two lengths behind Del Maro on his final start at two and returned with a narrow win. The step up to 1 mile 4 furlongs plus may suit his physical development and stamina.
⚠️ Others to Note
Mr Vettori Good Prospect
Shows useful form over middle distances but will need to improve to meet the demands of this step up in class and trip at Chester.
Proposition Promising 2yo
Won a Galway maiden at 2 years old over 7 furlongs on soft to heavy ground. Likely to show significant improvement stepping up in trip and fitted with cheekpieces.
📌 Race View
- Stamina is key over this extended 1m 4½f trip.
- The tight Chester track demands balance and positioning.
- Good ground should suit most runners, though some have experience on softer going.
- Early pace and racing from the inside stalls may influence the shape of the race.
Summary: The Boodles Chester Vase provides a chance for three-year-old colts and geldings to stretch out in distance early in the season, with stamina and balance likely to play a big role in the outcome.
