The Gordon Stakes, named after the Duke of Gordon, one of the many dukedoms held by the Duke of Richmond, was first contested over 1 mile 2 furlongs when open to 3-year-olds and above. The present-day version of the race was established in 1902 over 1 mile 3 furlongs and 218 yards, although that running was open to 3-year-olds and above, whereas from 1903 onwards it was restricted to 3-year-olds and is used as a St Leger trial. For a period of time it did not form part of the Glorious Goodwood Festival, being run at a different time of the year, but now it is held on the 3rd day of the 5 day Festival.
Early history:- The inaugural running of the Gordon Stakes was on Thursday 30th July 1891 when Lord Zetland’s Patrick Blue defeated Yard Arm and Martenhurst, although the 1902 version went to Osbech, and the 1903 version, which is the present-day version of the race, was won by Zinfandel.