THOUSANDS of spectators braved unpredictable weather for the opening day of the 2010 Dante Festival at York Racecourse.

Hats are always in fashion at any racing meeting, but unseasonable temperatures and changeable weather meant they were accompanied by thick coats, umbrellas and blankets at yesterday’s event.

As the sun peeked through the clouds, some brave young women defied the cold in style, with short summer dresses.

But as sunshine gave way to showers, the areas of the course usually containing Champagne drinkers were suddenly filled with crowds guzzling tea and devouring biscuits to stay warm.

James Brennan, head of marketing at York Racecourse, said the weather hadn’t dampened racegoers’ spirits.

He said: “This is always a busy day for us, but it’s usually a day for picnics. Not this year though.”

Just under 10,000 racing fans filled the course to see the races, including the only win for a North Yorkshire-trained horse in the fifth race.

Deauville Flyer, placed first in the 3.45 at odds of 8-1, saw Tim Easterby become the top Yorkshire trainer on Knavesmire on the first day of the festival.

Also among the crowd were York City boss Martin Foyle, club chairman Jason McGill and a host of players.

Although officially there to present prizes for the York City at Wembley with Blue Square Stakes, the City boss said it was a great way for the squad to unwind between training sessions for Sunday’s promotion battle at Wembley.

Foyle said: “We have had a bit of fun and a bit of banter. It’s a great place to come and watch racing.

“If you go into these tight affairs on a Sunday, there can be a lot of pressure on it and we need to be relaxed.”