Special Press day springs into action

8:44am Friday 25th April 2008

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IT has been watched by close on 200,000 people, has proved to be a springboard to some great racing careers and has become a firm fixture for families across York, North and East Yorkshire.

And it's back, this time in a special springtime spot.

“The Press Raceday has become a real community event, supported by thousands of local people who turn it into a tremendous family occasion. "

Kevin Booth, editor of The Press

The Press Family Raceday returns to York Racecourse on Friday, May 30, and punters who turn up to enjoy the unique mix of top-class racing and wholesome fun can expect another ace day of action.

This is the ninth year The Press has sponsored the popular event, which has been moved from its late Summer Sunday to Friday, May 30, because of vital track work on Knavesmire.

That work, the most significant on the course since its foundation in the mid-18th century, means the season will end following August's four-day Ebor Festival.

It is not the first time The Press Raceday has moved. Two years ago, it filled a June Sunday slot to allow the course to follow the prestigious Royal Ascot festival by hosting the St Leger meeting - Britain's oldest Classic race.

Punters still flocked in their numbers and, far from being despondent at this latest change, track chiefs reckon the event - which regularly plays host to crowds topping the 20,000 mark - can go from strength to strength.

York is able to enjoy a Friday foray thanks to neighbours Catterick, with whom the race committee has exchanged fixtures. The Press Family Raceday now forms part of a new two-day May spring weekend festival.

James Brennan, York racecourse marketing manager, said: "We are delighted to be continuing with the family day and its fun and feel. It always has a more relaxed atmosphere, created by happy children of different generations enjoying the excitement of a raceday as well as time with family and friends."

Once a chance for some of racing's lesser lights to grab centre stage, the meeting has attracted a host of top-class thoroughbreds in recent renewals.

Last year, Yorkshire trainers grabbed the reins in fine style - winning five of the seven races.

Excitement and Realism provided a double for Musley Bank's Richard Fahey, Middleham's Pat Haslam and James Bethell struck gold with Choose Your Moment and Casual Affair respectively, while 20-1 shot Mr Arjay toughed out a win for Malton-based Brian Ellison. Another exciting day of competition is anticipated.

But The Press Family Raceday is about more than just horses.

While the adults can be entertained with the action on the track, there's plenty for the youngsters to do as well, with funfair rides and shows sure to capture the imagination.

Kevin Booth, editor of The Press said: "The Press Raceday has become a real community event, supported by thousands of local people who turn it into a tremendous family occasion.

"There's always a cracking atmosphere and, though this year switched to a Friday because of what's happening at the course, I'm sure it will be a brilliant day out."

Admission to The Press Family Raceday costs £24 for an adult County Stand badge and £20 for juniors. Entrance to the Grandstand and Paddock is £13, with those 65 and over playing £10.

Groups of six or more who pre-book can be admitted for £10 while it costs £4 to get into the Course enclosure (£2 65 and over).

Gates will open at 11.15am with the first race scheduled for 2.10pm. The final race will be held at 5pm.

To book, telephone York Racecourse on 01904 620911 or log on to www.yorkracecourse.co.uk