The introduction of the King's Stand Stakes wasn't by design, but due to inclement weather.

The Royal Stand Plate was to be run over two miles, but due to the heavy rain only five furlongs of the track was able to be used. Subsequently, the long-distance thoroughbreds had to run over the much shorter distance of 1000m.

The King's Stand Stakes has since become one of the most important sprint races at the Royal Ascot festival and having it on the first day of the festival adds to the atmosphere.

Past winners have included many champion sprinters from all around the world. Little Bridge won for Hong Kong in 2012 and the Australians have a great record.

Choisir won in 2003 before Takeover Target won three years later in 2006. Takeover Target was a $1000 purchase for Joe and Ben Janiak and Choisir has since become one of the top stallions to stand at stud in Australia.

Miss Andretti and Scenic Blast continued the Australian success in the years to come but there has been no Australian winner since 2009.

Lester Piggott holds the record for most wins with seven and trainer Vincent O'Brien scored five wins throughout his illustrious career.

It's the one race that escapes the reach of Aidan O'Brien, who has yet to win the King's Stand Stakes.

Runners don't need to break the one-minute mark to win, however, 2017 winner Lady Aurelia produced a big effort to win in 0:57.45.

The American-bred sprinter was a three-length winner over Profitable and although the favourite was beaten there were plenty of punters happy to see the popular runner take home the King's Stand Stakes.

Goldream scored an upset at odds of 25/1 in 2015. The son of Oasis Dream wasn't fancied to beat two-time winner Sole Power, which had won the previous two years.

It takes a good horse to win the King's Stand Stakes and international experience is top form for the sprinting race.

Australian racing is known for producing some of the best sprinters in the world and we're confident more Australian-trained runners will come contest the King's Stand Stakes and have good success at Royal Ascot.