Kempton Park news: The stars are out for Kauto on Boxing Day

‘The race of the century’ – says author Jilly Cooper

‘History in the making’ – says I’m A Celebrity’s Willie Carson

‘Kauto Star – horses and people are written off too early, and I should know!’ – says footballer Michael Owen

SPORTS stars and celebrities would adore seeing Kauto Star win a record-breaking fifth William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton Park Racecourse on Boxing Day.

But their heads tell them that the odds favour Long Run to create history and win two King Georges and the Cheltenham Gold Cup in the same calendar year.

Michael Owen would love Kauto to regain his Boxing Day crown.

The Manchester United forward, who could yet be playing in his club’s Boxing Day match at Old Trafford after recovering from injury, said: “I championed Kauto Star's chances on my Twitter account on the morning of his epic Betfair Chase win last month.

“The media write off people and horses too early - I should know!!!

“My head says Long Run this time, but I would love to see Kauto make it five.”

Author Jilly Cooper can’t wait for Boxing Day – and wants Kauto to win in what she calls the “race of the century”.

She said: “I am heartbroken that I cannot be at Kempton on Boxing Day. It’s such a cosy racecourse at Christmas, but I shall be knee deep in grandchildren for the festive period.

“All my favourite horses are running; some of my lovely trainers have runners; and many of my friends will be going as it’s such a fantastic day out.

“I will be cheering on Kauto Star for the race of the century from the sofa and will be glued to Channel 4 Racing.”

Racing legend, winning jockey in 17 British Classic races, recent I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here contestant and present-day BBC racing pundit Willie Carson said: “I've been involved in and seen many huge races, but I'm fizzing with excitement over this year's King George.

“It has all the ingredients to be a sensational race - the current champion Long Run, the four times winner Kauto Star and others like Master Minded who could challenge the front two.

“This race, this year has the potential to be history in the making.  Kempton's going to be packed out for this one, that's for sure.”

Tottenham Hotspur defender Ledley King, a keen racing fan, is looking forward to Boxing Day too.
He said: “Footballers have always followed the horses.  A day’s racing is very relaxing and I have enjoyed going to Kempton Park when I owned a horse with Ashley Cole.

“Boxing Day is a great occasion and, although I’m usually involved in a game in the afternoon like many of my Premier League colleagues, this year Spurs aren't playing until the 27th so I’ll certainly enjoy watching the King George VI Chase and seeing if Long Run can win again or Kauto Star can regain his crown.” 

Tickets for Boxing Day and 27 December at Kempton Park Racecourse can be booked at kempton.co.uk.

Professional Jockeys Association news release: Jockeys clarify their position over whip rules

Wednesday 19 October: The Professional Jockeys Association today called for progress to be made urgently in amending the new whip rules.

There are concerns within horse racing that many Jockeys will independently decide not to take part in some racing fixtures next week in protest at the new rules.

PJA Chief Executive Kevin Darley said: "There is now a process of proper consultation and discussion involving Jockeys which should have happened before the original announcement by the British Horseracing Authority last month.  Had we been properly consulted over some of the important details that relate directly to Jockeys prior to that announcement we feel that we would not be in the position we are today. 

"Jockeys have no issues with the restricted amount of times they can use the whip under the new rules.  The careers of Jockeys are short by definition and the implications of financial penalties and long suspensions are savagely disproportionate."

Senior Jockeys Frankie Dettori and A P McCoy, who were quoted in the BHA news announcement last month, said they were asked to show their support by the BHA in the best interests of the sport.  They have now acknowledged that they wouldn't have agreed to the quotes had they and the PJA been given the time to consider the full implications and practical consequences of the new rules and penalties.

The two Jockeys said: "In hindsight we would like to have given more thought and consideration to the new rules before commenting.  We didn't give them properly informed approval and we really do wish the BHA would stop saying that we did."

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Kevin Darley, Chief Executive, at the Professional Jockeys Association, on 07974 172675

Professional Jockeys Association media statement on Monday evening 17 October

Monday evening 17 October: Professional Jockeys Association Chief Executive Kevin Darley said: "We will continue to work closely with the British Horseracing Authority in coming days to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion.  We will await the Authority's response to the very realistic and sensible proposals that the Jockeys made to the BHA board today.

"However, time is pressing and amendments to the new rules that Jockeys believe are workable need to be adopted very soon.  As far as Jockeys are concerned the current situation cannot continue, and we have made that clear to the BHA.  A resolution to this issue must be found."
ENDS

Kempton Park news: Formula 1 supremo drops in at racecourse

Monday 17 October: A MAN associated with a very different kind of horsepower was a visitor at Kempton Park Racecourse on Sunday (16 OCTOBER).

Formula 1's Bernie Ecclestone has taken such an interest in the sport of horse racing that he owns part of the racehorse Greylami which was running at the Sunbury track.

And he couldn't have had a better man in the saddle in the williamhill.com The Home Of Betting Novices' Hurdle race.  For his jockey was none other than BBC Sports Personality of the Year Tony McCoy.

However, the motor racing supremo - who chose to visit Kempton Park rather than fly east for the Korean Grand Prix - had to be satisfied with fourth place for his horse in the race in which eight took part.

'Jump Sunday' at Kempton Park was a popular afternoon out for the public on a warm autumn afternoon, with the current Kempton Park Christmas Hurdle and 2010 Champion Hurdle winner Binocular paraded.
Spectators also experienced what goes on behind the scenes, walking the final furlong with top jump jockey Robert Thornton and joining a tour to see the commentary box, weighing room, parade ring and stewards' box.

Those who fancied themselves as jockeys tried their skills on a mechanical horse, known as an equicisor, simulating riding in an actual race.

The next jump racing at Kempton Park is on Monday 31 October when the feature event is the £20,000 Betfair Graduation Chase.  Ticket prices are just £12 booked in advance, and £15 on the gate on the day.  To book tickets visit kempton.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 579 3008.  Tickets are also on sale both online at boxingdayraces.co.uk and by telephone for the William Hill Winter Festival on Boxing Day and Tuesday 27 December.

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For further information, please contact:
Kempton Park media office on 01932 782292

PJA news update: Jockeys issue statement after meeting with BHA board

Monday 17 October: Professional Jockeys Association Chief Executive Kevin Darley said: "We had a productive meeting with the BHA board this afternoon.

"They listened to all the points that we made about the working of the new whip rules. It was very useful for the PJA to have senior Jockeys like A P McCoy, Frankie Dettori, Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes present because they were able to paint various different race-riding scenarios to the board members.

"We will now await the BHA coming back to us. We can then see where we stand because the Jockeys as a group will have to find the rules workable."

ENDS

Professional Jockeys Association statement on Friday 14 October

Friday 14 October: The Professional Jockeys Association this afternoon submitted written proposals to the British Horseracing Authority concerning the new whip rules that apply to Jockeys.

The recommendations from the Jockeys include revisions to the range of penalties for infringements as well as some further clarifications of the rules themselves.

PJA Chief Executive Kevin Darley reiterated that Jockeys as a group welcomed the move towards greater precision in the amended rules.

"What Jockeys do have concerns about however, are the new penalties for what they perceive to be relatively minor infringements of the rules," he said.  "The PJA believes very strongly that this aspect needs to be re-considered."

He stressed that Jockeys understood how important it is that the sport of racing conveys the correct message about horse welfare to the public. 

The PJA said that it hoped the BHA would respond positively and urgently to the proposals.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Kevin Darley, Chief Executive, at the Professional Jockeys Association, on 07974 172675

PJA media statement about the new whip rules

Thursday 13 October: Professional Jockeys Association Chief Executive Kevin Darley (pictured) this evening welcomed the statement of British Horseracing Association Chairman Paul Roy concerning the new whip rules that apply to Jockeys.

He said: "The PJA is preparing a paper for the BHA that will outline our observations about how the new rules are working in practice during the first week.

"Jockeys as a group welcome the move towards greater clarity in the amended rules.  Jockeys understand too how important it is that the sport conveys the correct message about horse welfare to the public. 

"What they do have concerns about however, are the new penalties for infringements of the rules.  The PJA thinks that aspect needs to be looked at again, and we look forward to further discussions with the BHA."

For further information, please contact:Kevin Darley, Chief Executive, at the Professional Jockeys Association, on 07974 172675

Haydock Park news release: 'Dr Frankie Dettori' at charity racing day

Wednesday 12 October: Frankie Dettori - who receives an honorary doctorate on Thursday - rides at Haydock Park's final fixture of the 2011 Flat racing season on a day dedicated to a charity of which the jockey is a patron.

Friday is the first ever racing day to raise funds for the Lancashire-based Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre, Europe's original charity for the rehabilitation of racehorses.

The TRC has been at Whinney Hill, a 230-acre former dairy farm at Halton, near Lancaster, since 2006.  Among its patrons are the former 'Voice of Racing' Sir Peter O'Sullevan, Manchester United footballer Michael Owen's wife Louise and Frankie Dettori.

The jockey was receiving his honorary doctorate at a ceremony at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge on Thursday.

*Friday's final Flat racing fixture of the season at Haydock Park is a new one for 2011.  The first race of eight is at 1.55pm.  Admission: £12 (combined Newton and Tattersalls Enclosures); £20 (County Stand); £36 (Premier Suite).  More information at haydockpark.co.uk.

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For further information, please contact:
Dickon White, managing director, at Haydock Park Racecourse, on 01942 725963

Racing for Change news release: Dr Frankie Dettori, I presume...

Wednesday 12 October: The country's most famous jockey Frankie Dettori will add an honorary doctorate to his many great sporting achievements on Thursday (13 OCTOBER).

The rider, who can be seen in more conventional circumstances 48 hours later on QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse, will join graduates from Anglia Ruskin University at a ceremony in Cambridge when he will be made a doctor of science.

Ten key facts about Frankie...

1. Lanfranco Oscar Dettori was born on 15 December 1970 in Milan, Italy.

2. His father was a famous jockey and his mother was a circus performer.

3. He has ridden over 3,000 winners.

4. He married Catherine Allen in 1998 and the couple have five children - Leo, Ella, Mia, Tallulah and Rocco.  They live in Newmarket, Suffolk.

5. He owns a Ferrari but rarely drives himself, except on the school run.

6. He has his own food range known as Dettori's Italian Foods, is the author of 'Frankie Dettori's Italian Family Cookbook' and has a chain of restaurants called 'Frankie's Italian Bar and Grill' in partnership with Marco Pierre White.

7. He supports Arsenal Football Club.

8. His proudest moment in sport was winning all seven races - his 'Magnificent Seven' - at Ascot one day in September 1996.

9. He was awarded an MBE in 2001.

10. His flying dismounts are a tribute to the jockey Angel Cordero. He started doing them in 1994.

ENDS

Further information from:
Nick Attenborough, Consumer PR Director, at Racing for Change on 020 7152 0193 or 07714 146528 or nattenborough@racingenterpriseslimited.co.uk

Ffos Las Racecourse news: Fantastic auction items to raise funds for Swansea Valley Miners Appeal

Wednesday 12 October: BIDDING has started on an array of auction items that will raise tens of thousands of pounds for the Swansea Valley Miners Appeal Fund over two days of horse racing at Ffos Las Racecourse.

The official appeal has already raised £300,000 - and the Carmarthenshire racecourse hopes to add much more to the total.

The fixtures dedicated to the appeal fund are on Friday 4 and Sunday 6 November when musical entertainment is planned for visitors alongside two afternoons of horse racing.

Among dozens of auction items - for which bids are already being accepted online at ffoslasracecourse.com - are:

* Beer for a year from Felinfoel Brewery;
* Hospitality for ten people at Cheltenham Racecourse on Gold Cup day next March;
* Morning on the gallops and a day's racing with Gold Cup-winning trainer Nicky Henderson and Welsh trainer Tim Vaughan;
* A day with Channel 4 Racing;
* Four ball golf at Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland with overnight accommodation;
* Hospitality for two at Tottenham Hotspur FC - and hospitality at Swansea v Spurs on 31 December;
* Hospitality for six on Coral Welsh National day at Chepstow Racecourse.

There are also many more items that are prizes in a huge raffle.

The fund-raising initiative is from a racecourse that was developed by Welsh businessman Dai Walters, whose father was a coal miner.

The racecourse has already raised £25,000 through donations ahead of the two days.  With the auction and raffle items, plus a percentage of admission money, the racecourse hopes to build greatly on that initial figure.

Dai Walters said: "Ffos Las is at the heart of the communities of south west Wales which have been so affected by the terrible mining tragedy, so we are determined to do our utmost to help the families of the miners.

"I am sure that our visitors and supporters will be most generous as we do what we can to ease the blow to those who lost loved ones.

"We have been overwhelmed by the pledges and raffle prizes from those who have donated and we send our sincerest thanks to them for their generosity."

There is post-racing entertainment at the racecourse on Sunday 6 November, with a performance from the Three Welsh Tenors - Rhys Meirion, Aled Hall and Alun Rhys-Jenkins - and by singer Shan Cothi.

Friday 4 November is the finale to the 2011 Flat racing season at Ffos Las, while it is a jump racing day on Sunday 6 November.  Advance admission costs £16, while on-the-day admission is £18.  Accompanied under 16s are admitted free of charge.

Special offer: £22 - admission, carvery roll or vegetarian option, racecard and pint of beer/lager/cider or glass of wine.  For £2 more (£24), a Bet Boosted Booklet is added.

The first race time on both days is 1pm.

More information is available at http://www.ffoslasracecourse.com/ where tickets can be bought.

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For further information, please contact:
Tim Long, General Manager and Clerk of the Course, at Ffos Las Racecourse, on 01554 811092

Kempton Park news: Christmas Hurdle hero parades on Sunday

Tuesday 11 October: The countdown to the 2011 William Hill Winter Festival begins in earnest on Sunday (16 OCTOBER) when the current Christmas Hurdle and 2010 Champion Hurdle winner Binocular parades at Kempton Park.

‘Jump Sunday’ is the opening day of the 2011/12 National Hunt racing season at the Sunbury racecourse – and Kempton is laying on a host of activities for visitors.

Spectators will be able to experience what goes on behind the scenes on a race day.  They can walk the final furlong with a top jumps jockey before the first race or join a tour where they can visit the commentary box, weighing room, parade ring and enjoy an integrity talk in the stewards’ box.

Those who fancy themselves as a jockey can try their skills on a mechanical horse, known as an equicisor, simulating riding in an actual race.

Binocular will make an appearance on the racetrack.  The most recent winner of the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park and the 2010 Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, the horse was one of five winners for trainer Nicky Henderson on ‘Super Saturday’ at Kempton Park in January.

Nicky Henderson also triumphed with Long Run in the William Hill King George VI Chase and the horse’s regular jockey, Sam Waley Cohen, will also be a guest at the racecourse discussing his hopes for the season.

On the track on Sunday, the former Rosebery Stakes winner on Kempton’s all-weather surface Greylami – part-owned by Formula 1’s Bernie Ecclestone – could run in the Listed williamhill.com Home Of Betting Novices’ Hurdle.

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls’ Toubab could make his debut over fences in the williamhill.com Beginners’ Chase, a race in which The Queen’s Henrietta Knight-trained five-year-old Harvest Song may take part.

Gates open on Sunday at 12.15pm.  The first race is at 2.15pm. 

Regular fans of jump racing can take advantage of becoming an annual member at Kempton Park and enjoy a wide range of benefits offered - a VIP members lounge, admission on all 10 days racing, including the William Hill Winter Festival, free car parking and a signed picture of Sam Waley Cohen and Long Run.

Annual members will enjoy a Bucks Fizz reception on Sunday and reciprocal days, where they get free entry at other racecourses, throughout the season.  More details about annual membership are available on 01932 782292 or by emailing lisa.russell-smith@jockeyclubracecourses.com.

Ticket prices for ‘Jump Sunday’ are just £12 booked in advance by 5pm Friday 14 October, and £15 on the gate on the day.  To book tickets visit www.kempton.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 579 3008.

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For further information, please contact:

Kempton Park media office on 01932 782292

QIPCO British Champions Day news release: Visitor attractions announced for British horse racing's richest-ever day

Thursday 6 October: The richest day in the history of British horse racing is set to captivate an audience of tens of thousands of people at Ascot Racecourse and millions more watching on television in 75 countries around the world.

With £3m in prize-money, QIPCO British Champions Day on Saturday 15 October is the culmination of the first-ever British Champions Series that began in April and comes to a climax in front of Her Majesty The Queen.

Tickets for the big occasion have sold quickly.  All Premier Enclosure badges, as well as hospitality areas, have been sold.  But there will be plenty of room on the day for visitors who buy Grandstand tickets at £26 each for adults.  Accompanied children are admitted free of charge.

As well as the top class horse racing, an array of 'Best of British' entertainments is being laid on for visitors to the Berkshire racecourse.

Rod Street, chief executive of the British Champions Series, said: "QIPCO British Champions Day, the spectacular new climax to the season, is the culmination of the inaugural 35-race British Champions Series which has encompassed the very best of British Flat racing.

"We have been so fortunate to have horses like Frankel, Immortal Verse, Twice Over, Midday, Blue Bunting, Dancing Rain, Deacon Blues and Hoof It, Moonlight Cloud and Nathaniel targeting the big races.
"Sensational racing is in prospect and we hope everyone enjoys a very special day at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday 15 October and that it sets a benchmark for years to come - a world-class finale for British racing."

On the racetrack, all eyes will be on the racehorse of the year Frankel who will appear in the £1m Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.  He has won each of his three British Champions Series races to date, and now goes for a fourth.

The climax of the afternoon is the £1.3m QIPCO Champion Stakes at 4.10pm.

But before then, there will be plenty for people to see and do.  Gates open at 11am so that visitors can sample the build-up to that races that start at 1.50pm and enjoy a series of 'Best of British' and interactive attractions.

* Household Cavalry - two Household Cavalry riders and horses in their full regalia will lead the runners out on to the racetrack and accompany the victorious horses returning to the winner's enclosure in each of the five championship races.

* Legends autographs - five former champion jockeys in Britain (Lester Piggott, Joe Mercer, Willie Carson, Pat Eddery and Kevin Darley) will join Britain's best ever female jockey, Hayley Turner, who won two Group 1 races this season, and multiple Irish champion jockey Johnny Murtagh to sign autographs at 12.45pm.

* Alternative horse power - a display of Triumph motorcycles (including a bespoke Daytona 675 Sports bike in British Champions Series colours) and vintage British cars.

* Meet the racehorse - after first seeing Joey, the horse originally made famous in the critically acclaimed theatre production 'War Horse', visitors can meet and pat former Cheltenham Festival winner Monsignor during the afternoon.

* Equicisors - two mechanical horses used for jockey training will offer visitors the chance to find out what it's like to ride a racehorse. 

* Champion Jockey on PlayStation 3 - with the Move Motion Control System, visitors can experience the thrill of what it feels like to be a real jockey in a race.

* Commentary karaoke - those who fancy themselves as a race caller can give it a go on a commentary karaoke and take away a recording.

* Book signing - Felix Francis, son of legendary author Dick Francis, will sign copies of his new book Gamble.

* The Big Draw - 'The Big Draw' is happening across Britain this month and youngsters could win £100 in Toys R Us vouchers if they draw something to catch the eye of the judges.  Free crayons and drawing paper given out.

* Great British Brands - thousands of pounds worth of items from great British brands will be on display in the Grandstand, all of which visitors will be able to win in 'text-to-win' competitions.

Tickets: Premier - sold out; Grandstand - £26 (with 10% advance booking discount £23.40); children - under 18 years of age - free; parking - free in car park 6; book at britishchampionsseries.com or on 0870 727 1234.

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Further information from:
Nick Attenborough, Consumer PR Director, on 020 7152 0193 or 07714 146528 or nattenborough@racingenterpriseslimited.co.uk

Ffos Las Racecourse news: Tens of thousands of pounds to be raised for miners appeal fund

Wednesday 5 October: Tens of thousands of pounds are to be donated to the Swansea Valley Miners Appeal Fund from two days of horse racing at Ffos Las Racecourse.

The fund is to support the families of the victims of last month's Gleision mining tragedy who need help to survive and recover in the future.

The appeal has already raised over £200,000 - and the Carmarthenshire racecourse hopes to add much more to the total.

The fixtures dedicated to the appeal fund are on Friday 4 and Sunday 6 November when musical entertainment is planned for visitors alongside two afternoons of horse racing.

The initiative is from a racecourse that was developed by Welsh businessman Dai Walters, whose father was a coal miner.

A percentage of earnings from raceday admissions, sponsorships and hospitality - as well as raffles and auctions over the two days - will be given to the appeal fund.

The racecourse has already raised £25,000 through donations ahead of the two days.  With auction items valued at over £20,000, plus a percentage of admission money, the racecourse hopes to build greatly on that initial figure.

Dai Walters said: "Ffos Las is at the heart of the communities of south west Wales which have been so affected by the terrible mining tragedy, so we are determined to do our utmost to help the families of the miners.

"I am sure that our visitors and supporters will be most generous as we do what we can to ease the blow to those who lost loved ones."

There is post-racing entertainment on Sunday 6 November, with a performance from the Three Welsh Tenors - Rhys Meirion, Aled Hall and Alun Rhys-Jenkins - and by singer Sian Cothi.

Friday 4 November is the finale to the 2011 Flat racing season at Ffos Las, while it is a jump racing day on Sunday 6 November.  Advance admission costs £16, while on-the-day admission is £18.  Accompanied under 16s are admitted free of charge.

Special offer: £22 - admission, carvery roll or vegetarian option, racecard and pint of beer/lager/cider or glass of wine.  For £2 more (£24), a Bet Boosted Booklet is added.

The first race time on both days is 1pm.

More information is available at ffoslasracecourse.com where tickets can be bought.

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For further information, please contact:
Tim Long, General Manager and Clerk of the Course, at Ffos Las Racecourse, on 01554 811092

Haydock Park Racecourse news release: Lester Piggott stars on final Saturday on the Flat at Haydock Park

Wednesday 21 September: Legendary jockey Lester Piggott will be making a special guest appearance at the final two-day meeting of Haydock Park's 2011 Flat racing season.

The nine-times Derby winner, whose first and last winners 46 years apart were at the racecourse, will present the prize for Saturday's (24 SEPTEMBER) £30,000 sports360.co.uk Lester Piggott "Start To Finish" Handicap Stakes.

The 75-year-old's achievements are commemorated in a bronze which was unveiled at the North West racecourse five years ago.

Dickon White, Haydock Park's managing director, said: "It is always a great pleasure to welcome Lester Piggott to Haydock Park where he is a popular visitor.  We are also delighted that the Lancashire sports branding and sponsorship business sports360 is supporting the feature race on the final Saturday of the 2011 Flat racing season at Haydock Park."

The two-day meeting begins on Friday afternoon and, on at least one of the two days, it is likely that racegoers will see locally-born rider and champion jockey Paul Hanagan in action as he bids to reinforce his position at the top of the 2011 Flat jockeys' championship.

Friday's racing action includes the final of the Betdaq The Betting Exchange Apprentice Series, the culmination of seven races run at the racecourse during the spring and summer to give apprentice jockeys the chance to learn their trade.  The current narrow leader of the series is Ryan Clark.

After Saturday, the final fixture of the 2011 Flat racing season at Haydock Park is on Friday 14 October when funds are being raised for the Lancashire-based Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre, Europe's original racehorse re-homing charity.

The first race times on Friday and Saturday are 2.05pm and 1.40pm respectively.  Friday is the raceday of Vale UK, the shopfitting business from Prescot in Merseyside.

*The next racing at Haydock Park is the two-day meeting on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 September - Vale UK and Sports 360 Lester Piggott racedays respectively.  Admission: Friday - £12 Newton/Tattersalls, £24 County, £36 Premier; Saturday - £12 Newton, £20 Tattersalls, £30 County, £45 Premier.  Accompanied children under 18 enter free.  Senior citizens and students, with appropriate identification, enter Tattersalls at half price.  More at haydock-park.com.

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For further information, please contact:
Dickon White, managing director, at Haydock Park Racecourse, on 01942 725963

Huntingdon Racecourse news release: it's Newcomers' Day at Cambridgeshire racecourse

Tuesday 20 September: Huntingdon Racecourse is laying on a warm welcome for the first of its two Sunday fixtures in October especially for those people who may never have been to the races before.

The jump racing meeting on Sunday 2 October is "Newcomers' Day".

As well as watching six horse races, visitors will be able to take part in a behind-the-scenes tour to:

* See the paddock and saddling boxes;
* Walk the racetrack and meet the head groundsman;
* Talk to a jockey;
* And watch a riding demonstration on a practice Equicisor.

The one-hour tour - organised by the British Horseracing Education & Standards Trust - begins at 12.45pm outside the weighing room, 20 minutes after the racecourse opens.

There will also be a competition to design a jockey's racing silks and visitors will be able to go to the start of one of the races - which race is still to be decided.

In addition, there will be free entertainments including:

* Pony rides in the Main Enclosure from local riding school Scallywag;
* A circus workshop;
* A selection of giant games;
* An activity bouncy castle;
* And, with the Rugby World Cup happening in New Zealand, a rugby shoot-out.

As Sunday 2 October is a day for families, the Picnic Car Park will be open.  Admission into the picnic area is just £8 for over 18s - accompanied under 18s are free.

Admission to the Main Enclosure on the day is £15 for over 18s.  There is an advance booking offer for the Main Enclosure of just £10 (booked by midnight on Saturday 1 October), quoting COMERACING2011.  Tickets can be ordered by telephone (0844 579 3007) or online at huntingdon-racecourse.co.uk.

Gates open at on Sunday 2 October at 12.25pm, with the first race at 2.25pm.

GUIDE TO HORSE RACING

What can a first time visitor to Huntingdon Racecourse expect?  They'll find plenty of signs pointing out where everything is - from restaurants, to toilets, to bars, and bookmakers.

Admission and parking: Parking is free - and so is admission for under 18s accompanied by an adult.  Choose between the Main Enclosure (£15) and the Picnic Enclosure (£8).  Admission can be paid on the day of racing - or badges can be ordered in advance at huntingdonracecourse.co.uk where there is plenty more information about the racecourse.  Dogs are allowed on a lead in the Picnic Enclosure, but not elsewhere on the racecourse.

Food & drink: There are refreshments to suit everyone's pocket and taste.  Visitors can choose between the luxury of the Peterborough Chase restaurant, the Hurdles Bar & Bistro, and the Champagne & Seafood bar.  There are fast food outlets too, including pasties and hog roast.  Picnic Enclosure patrons often bring picnics - obviously!

Racecard: The official racecard is invaluable.  The silks worn by the jockeys are displayed in colour, so punters can pinpoint who is who on top of the horses and spot where their chosen horse is during a race.

Betting: Bets can be placed with the bookmakers who stand in front of the grandstands or with The Tote.  Punters 'take a price' with a bookmaker at the time when they put their money on, whereas with The Tote the bet goes into a pool, with the winnings decided after the race.

Making a selection: The crowds can assess the horses, both in the parade ring and as they canter to the start of the race.  Or people just choose their favourite jockey or a horse whose name they like or whose rider is wearing their favourite colour!  After all, it's just a bit of fun.

The races: There are six races at half-hourly intervals - and the crowds watch from the grandstands and cheer the winners as they come back into the winner's enclosure.

THE RACES

2.25 TurfTV Novices' Hurdle
3.00 Brampton Handicap Chase
3.45 Huntingdon For All Your Wedding Needs Juvenile Hurdle
4.15 Huntingdon Novices' Chase
4.50 Huntingdon-Racecourse.co.uk Handicap Hurdle
5.20 Book Your Christmas Party at Huntingdon Handicap Hurdle

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For further information, please contact:
Sophie Hodgkinson, managing director, at Huntingdon Racecourse on 01480 453373 or 07921 269665

Market Rasen Racecourse news release: Emotional 'Prelude' day at Lincolnshire racecourse

Tuesday 20 September: Emotions will be running high at Market Rasen Racecourse on Saturday (24 SEPTEMBER) when the son of the late Ginger McCain who trained Red Rum to three Grand Nationals will target the major races.

Tributes have been flooding in for the Aintree legend (pictured with son Donald Jnr) who was also successful with Amberleigh House in the Grand National and who died on Monday two days short of his 81st birthday.

Saturday is a poignant day at the Lincolnshire racecourse too because the winner of the Tom Halliday Scholarship - awarded annually in memory of the young jockey who died after his horse fell at the track in 2005 - will be announced.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the racecourse set up the scholarship through which a conditional jockey - one who is serving his or her apprenticeship - receives expert sessions on schooling, nutrition, and media training, plus coaching from staff at the Northern Racing College in Doncaster.

The feature races on Saturday are the newly Listed £30,000 totescoop6 Prelude Hurdle, run over two miles and one furlong, and the Listed £50,000 totepool Prelude Chase.  It's a day of racing that is as prestigious as the racecourse's Totesport Summer Plate in July.

Donald McCain Jnr, who emulated his father with the victory by Ballabriggs in the Grand National in the spring, is aiming to run Drill Sergeant in the hurdle race and Alderley Rover in the steeplechase.

His charges will face stiff competition from 2011 Summer Hurdle winner Viva Colonia and Summer Plate hero Qulinton.

Welsh trainer Peter Bowen, who saddled the winner of the Prelude Chase three years in a row until 2009, is strongly represented with four of the initial 23 entries.

Pip Kirkby, the racecourse's managing director, said: "We have worked hard in recent years to create an excellent racing day in late September which falls between what is popularly regarded as the 'summer' jump racing season and the major National Hunt campaign that leads all the way to the Cheltenham Festival and the John Smith's Grand National.

"The quality of the horses being sent to run at the Prelude meeting continues to improve and that is reflected in the recent upgrading of the Prelude Hurdle.

"There is bound to be big support for the horses of Ginger McCain's son Donald Jnr.  And we also have the very important announcement to make about the next Tom Halliday Scholar."

General admission

The first race time on Saturday is 1.50pm, and gates will be open from 12 noon.  Premier Members £28; County Enclosure £21; Tattersalls £16; Family Enclosure £10; Picnic Car Park £5 per car + Family Enclosure admission per adult.  Accompanied children under 18 always admitted free of charge.  More information at marketrasenraces.co.uk.

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For further information please contact:
Pip Kirkby, managing director, at Market Rasen Racecourse, on 01673 843434 or 07796 996081

Redcar Racecourse news release: Eyes of horse racing world to focus on Redcar

Thursday 15 September: Redcar Racecourse stages its most important sporting occasion of the year on Saturday 1 October when well over £200,000 will be won by the successful racehorses.

The eyes of the racing world will be focussed on the Tees Valley racecourse - and the cameras of Channel 4 will be present - for one of the most eagerly awaited races for the youngest racehorses in Britain and Ireland.

The Totepool Two-Year-Old Trophy, raced over threequarters of a mile, attracts entries from hundreds of horses.  But only 23 can take part.

The race, for two-year-old colts and fillies, is worth a minimum of £150,000, and the prize is much sought after by racehorse owners and trainers on both sides of the Irish Sea.

As well as that feature race, there is the seventh running of the John Smith's Redcar Straight-Mile Championship Final for which horses have been racing to qualify during the spring and summer.

Completing a trio of top class races, there is the historic Guisborough Stakes, which is worth £30,000 in prize-money.

Redcar Racecourse's general manager Amy Fair said: "This is the day in the year when we really come into the sporting spotlight.

"We are delighted, as always, to welcome Channel 4 to our racecourse, which means that we will be seen by more than one million viewers across the country.

"As a thank you to our visitors this year, anyone booking a ticket in advance for 1 October will be given a 50% discount on admission and racecards for our final three meetings of 2011 as well as receiving £2 off a £5 Placepot bet with the Tote."

Visitors are also invited to join former jockey Jimmy Bleasdale for a behind-the-scenes tour of the racecourse including a visit to the weighing room.  The tour starts at 12.15pm in front of the Petch Stand. 

On Saturday 1 October, there are seven horse races between 2pm and 5.25pm.  After that, there are three further fixtures at Redcar Racecourse before the end of the Flat racing season - on Friday 14 October, Monday 24 October and Tuesday 1 November.

General admission on Saturday 1 October

Grandstand £15; Course Enclosure £5.  Accompanied children under 16 always admitted free of charge.  Seniors - £12 Grandstand and £4 Course Enclosure.  More information at redcarracing.co.uk.  The racecourse's website offers the convenience of online purchasing of tickets for all racing days.

Punter's package - £13-23 in the Course Enclosure and Grandstand depending on the day: admission ticket; raceday programme; pint of beer, glass of wine, or soft drink; dish of the day or hot baguette; and £2 off a £5 betting voucher.

Garden party package - £27.50 in the Grandstand Enclosure: admission ticket; raceday programme; glass of Champagne or Pimm's; seafood sandwich; bowl of strawberries & cream; and £2 off a £5 betting voucher.

Curry & pint package - £25 in the Grandstand Enclosure on feature days; admission ticket; raceday programme; pint of beer or lager; curry and rice; and £2 off a £5 betting voucher.

Barbecue package - £37.50 (£25.50 for under 16s) in the Grandstand Enclosure: use of the Classic Suite and Winners' Enclosure viewing balcony; admission ticket; raceday programme; pint of beer, glass of wine, or soft drink; meal from BBQ selection; and £2 off a £5 betting voucher.

Every special package bought for the Grandstand gets a £5 voucher redeemable against future bookings.

More information at redcarracing.co.uk and twitter.com/#!/redcarracing.

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For further information, please contact:
Amy Fair, General Manager, at Redcar Racecourse, on 01642 484068

Kempton Park Racecourse news release: William Hill Winter Festival ticket sales begin

Thursday 8 September: It's the must see British sporting occasion at Christmas time - and ticket sales for the William Hill Winter Festival at Kempton Park Racecourse on Boxing Day and Monday 27 December have begun.

Jump racing fans are already eagerly anticipating the return of the racehorse Long Run - and his amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen - following superb victories in the delayed 2010 William Hill King George VI Chase and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The racecourse's managing director Amy Starkey said: "The William Hill Winter Festival at Kempton Park is as much a part of Christmas as turkey, mulled wine and mince pies.

"Fans of sport love Boxing Day at Kempton Park, and especially the William Hill King George VI Chase, the showpiece race made so famous by the exploits of racehorse legends Desert Orchid and Kauto Star.  But we have a new King of Kempton now - and we are already excited about welcoming back Long Run to defend his crown.

"The best way for racing fans to guarantee their place to witness events unfold on Boxing Day is to book a 'Cracker' admission ticket in advance."

Visitors returning to Kempton Park will notice a big difference in the facilities in the main grandstand.  Following a makeover during the summer, there is a brand new Costa Coffee shop, the 'Kings of Kempton' bars and an Italian Trattoria serving freshly baked pizzas, plus relaxed seating areas - which will all ensure a more comfortable William Hill Winter Festival experience than ever before.

'Cracker' tickets - which are available for both days of the festival - come with a book of vouchers for a racecard, a drink, a £10 bet with William Hill, and a discounted return visit to Kempton Park in the New Year.

The ticketing options are:

* Premier Cracker with reserved seat £60;
* Premier Cracker £45;
* Paddock Cracker £30.

Tickets for the Festival Enclosure can also be bought in advance.  They cost £12.

Car parking tickets, which can be ordered in advance too, cost £5, £8 and £15.

On the second day of the William Hill Winter Festival - on Tuesday 27 December - the prices are £25 for Premier Cracker and £18 for Paddock Cracker tickets.

The Festival Enclosure on day two is £8 in advance, while car parking is £3 or £5.

Disabled parking is free of charge, as is parking in the centre of the racecourse on both days.

Bookings can be made online at boxingdayraces.co.uk or by calling the box office on 0844 579 3008.

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For further information, please contact:
Kempton Park media office on 01932 782292

About The Jockey Club

The Jockey Club is at the heart of racing in Great Britain as the largest commercial group in the sport. Its interests include:

Jockey Club Racecourses: Responsible for the operation of a diversified portfolio of 14 racecourses in Great Britain: Aintree, Carlisle, Cheltenham, Epsom Downs, Exeter, Haydock Park, Huntingdon, Kempton Park, Market Rasen, Newmarket, Nottingham, Sandown Park, Warwick and Wincanton.

The group stages four of the five 'Classics' of Flat racing (the Derby and the Oaks at Epsom Downs and the 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket), as well as the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National at Aintree.

Jockey Club Estates: The property and land management company responsible for the management and administration of more than 5,000 acres of land in and around the racing training centres of Newmarket and Lambourn, as well as an extensive property portfolio, including the Jockey Club Rooms.

The National Stud: Transferred from Government to The Jockey Club in 2008, The National Stud is a commercial thoroughbred breeding enterprise with a commitment to provide training and educational programmes.

Racing Welfare: A racing charity and company limited by guarantee with The Jockey Club being the sole member. The principal objective of Racing Welfare is to provide help to those in need who work or have worked in the thoroughbred industry, and their dependants.

Racing for Change news release: Can history repeat itself in the world's oldest Classic race?

Thursday 1 September: British horseracing is steeped in history, but no Classic race can claim an older heritage than the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster Racecourse which was first established in 1776 and celebrates its 225th running on Saturday 10 September 2011.

What's more, time and time again we can draw parallels with previous races in the elusive search for the next winner, for the St Leger has a happy habit of being won by previously successful jockeys and trainers.  It's just a matter of finding the right one.

During its history, the race has been won on 16 occasions by the same trainer, nine times by the same jockey and seven times by the same owner but never twice by the same horse.  This is for the simple reason that the St Leger, being one of the five British Classics, is restricted to horses that are three years old.

This year's race, which forms part of the all-important QIPCO British Champions Series, is likely to be contested by nine trainers, jockeys or owners who've enjoyed success in previous years.

Amongst the training ranks, Sir Michael Stoute, John Gosden and Aidan O'Brien have already celebrated a St Leger victory with the latter having won it on three occasions to date.  Amongst the jockeys, William Buick, Jamie Spencer and Frankie Dettori have all tasted victory, with Frankie notching up five victories in previous St Legers.  Certain owners have also proved luckier than others over the years, with Godolphin, Coolmore and Khalid Abdulla each having collected the trophy on at least one occasion.

Look back through the decades and you'll see history repeating itself again and again.  The great Lester Piggott won the race on eight occasions; Gordon Richards five times; and Fred Archer four times.  Legendary trainers Dick Hern and Sir Henry Cecil have lifted the prize nine times between them.

From an historical perspective, the horses with the greatest chance of victory this year have to be: Blue Bunting, owned by Godolphin and ridden by Frankie Dettori; Sea Moon, trained by Sir Michael Stoute and owned by Khalid Abdullah; or one of Aidan O'Brien's runners for Coolmore.

Ten Facts You Might Not Know About the St Leger

1. The race was founded by Anthony St Leger (properly pronounced Sellinger) in 1776, but it didn't carry his name in the title until 1778.

2. The race was first run over two miles but its distance was cut in 1813 to 1 mile, 6 furlongs, 193 yards and has remained much the same ever since.

3. The St Leger is the oldest of the five Classics, the others being the Derby, Oaks, 2,000 Guineas and 1,000 Guineas.

4. The St Leger is the third and final part of the Triple Crown - 2000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger (colts) and 1000 Guineas, Oaks and St Leger (fillies).  The only colt to complete the series since the Second World War was Nijinsky in 1970, while Oh So Sharp achieved it for the fillies in 1985.

5. The event has been at its present location, Town Moor in Doncaster, since 1778 with few exceptions.

6. The 1939 race was cancelled because of the outbreak of the Second World War early in September.

7. Frankie Dettori has ridden the winner three times in the last six years; John Gosden has trained the winner twice in the last four years.

8. The Queen's filly Dunfermline won the St Leger during Her Majesty's Silver Jubilee year in 1977.

9. A 19th Century adage was that 'while the fittest horse wins the 2000 Guineas and the luckiest horse wins the Derby, the best horse wins the St Leger'.

10. In the early years of the St Leger, horses entered for the race had to be 'shown' at a spot outside Doncaster called Lousy Bush Close.

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For further information and images please contact:

Nick Attenborough, Director of Consumer PR, Racing Enterprises Limited, on 020 7152 0193 or nattenborough@racingenterpriseslimited.co.uk

Racing for Change news release: Top lady jockey of all time flies in for 'Legends' race

Wednesday 31 August: The world's most successful female jockey is flying into Britain from the United States to take part in the star-studded 'Leger Legends' race at Doncaster Racecourse.

There is a truly international flavour to this year's race on Wednesday afternoon (7 SEPTEMBER) when some of the most successful riders from both codes of horse racing will pull on their silks one more time.

Julie Krone, now retired, joins 15 other former stars of the saddle who won 20,000 races between them at the meeting that reaches a climax with the St Leger, the final Classic of the British horse racing season.

Such is her enthusiasm to take part that the American Hall of Fame rider, who won over 3,700 races, turned down a chance to appear in Survivor, America's equivalent of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me out of Here.

Alongside her is former French jockey Thierry Gillet, who won the 2004 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe - Europe's richest horse race.

The 16 stars also include Gay Kelleway, the first woman to ride a winner a Royal Ascot, and 2000 Flat racing champion Kevin Darley, plus jump racing heroes Norman Williamson and Charlie Swan who won the inaugural 'Leger Legends' race 12 months ago.  At age 64, George Duffield is the most senior 'legend'.

Lining up too - and race riding for the first time since the plane crash which ended his riding career - is former Derby winning jockey Ray Cochrane.  The accident at Newmarket in 2000 also seriously injured Frankie Dettori and claimed the life of the pilot.

The 'Leger Legends' race over one mile is in aid of two charities - the Injured Jockeys Fund's 'House That Jack Built' initiative and the Northern Racing College student accommodation project.

The 'Leger Legends' race is at 3.45pm on Wednesday 7 September.  For more information, visit www.lovetheraces.com.

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For further information and images please contact:
Nick Attenborough, Director of Consumer PR, Racing Enterprises Limited, on 020 7152 0193 or nattenborough@racingenterpriseslimited.co.uk

Kempton Park Racecourse news release: Globetrotter aims to land biggest Flat race of 2011

Tuesday 30 August: A racehorse with many thousands of air miles arrives at Kempton Park on Saturday (3 SEPTEMBER) aiming to claim the biggest prize of the Flat racing year at the racecourse.

The bay-coloured filly Mahbooba was bred in Australia four years ago, started her racing career in South Africa, and spent last winter running in Dubai before coming to Britain this summer.

Her biggest payday to date was when she achieved third place in the United Arab Emirates Derby in the spring.  Now she goes for the Betfred September Stakes on Europe's premier all-weather Flat racing track at Kempton Park.

The widely travelled filly certainly won't have it all her own way in the one and a half mile £50,000 Group 3 race.  The major training stables are represented by horses, some of which appeared at Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood.

While the Betfred September Stakes is the feature event on Ladies' Day at the Sunbury racecourse, the six other races also include the final of the £43,800 totescoop6 London Mile Handicap for which horses have been running in qualifiers all year and the £34,000 Group 3 betfred.com Sirenia Stakes, run over threequarters of a mile.

Before the professional races begin at 2.15pm, there are two pony races for young aspiring riders.  The jockeys include the children of champion jump racing trainer Paul Nicholls and former champion jump jockey turned National Hunt trainer Jonjo O'Neill.

Visitors to Kempton Park on Saturday will also hear the lady who is poised to become Britain's first female racecourse commentator.  Hayley Moore - the sister of three times Flat racing champion jockey Ryan Moore - will commentate on one race alongside the regular race caller Lee McKenzie.

Ladies' Day features a live DJ set from Heart FM's Toby Anstis, with some fantastic prizes to be won for the best dressed racegoers courtesy of the Bentall Centre in Kingston.

Times and admission on Saturday 3 September

The pony races are at 1.30pm and 1.45pm.  The first horse race is at 2.15pm, with the finale at 5.25pm.

Adult admission costs £15 on the day, or £12 booked in advance.  Accompanied under 18s get free admission.  Tickets can be bought online at kempton.co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline on 0844 579 3008.  Further details about Ladies' Day can also be found at kemptonlive.co.uk.

Travelling to Kempton Park could not be easier, only 30 minutes from central London with easy access off the M25 and plenty of free parking.  There is a railway to Kempton's own station with regular trains from Waterloo on the Shepperton line.

Kempton Park, Staines Road East, Sunbury-on-Thames TW16 5AQ (01932 782292).  Panoramic Restaurant packages including admission and a table for the day in the restaurant can be purchased in advance from £42 per person (call 01932 753518 for details).  More information can be found at kempton.co.uk.

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For further information, please contact:
Kempton Park media office on 01932 782292

About The Jockey Club

The Jockey Club is at the heart of racing in Great Britain as the largest commercial group in the sport. Its interests include:

Jockey Club Racecourses: Responsible for the operation of a diversified portfolio of 14 racecourses in Great Britain: Aintree, Carlisle, Cheltenham, Epsom Downs, Exeter, Haydock Park, Huntingdon, Kempton Park, Market Rasen, Newmarket, Nottingham, Sandown Park, Warwick and Wincanton.

The group stages four of the five 'Classics' of Flat racing (the Derby and the Oaks at Epsom Downs and the 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket), as well as the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National at Aintree.

Jockey Club Estates: The property and land management company responsible for the management and administration of more than 5,000 acres of land in and around the racing training centres of Newmarket and Lambourn, as well as an extensive property portfolio, including the Jockey Club Rooms.

The National Stud: Transferred from Government to The Jockey Club in 2008, The National Stud is a commercial thoroughbred breeding enterprise with a commitment to provide training and educational programmes.

Racing Welfare: A racing charity and company limited by guarantee with The Jockey Club being the sole member. The principal objective of Racing Welfare is to provide help to those in need who work or have worked in the thoroughbred industry, and their dependants.

Market Rasen Racecourse news release: Boxing Day tickets go on sale

Friday 26 August: Hot on the hooves of a fantastic summer of horse racing - plus a Peter Andre concert that will live long in the memory - tickets for the most popular day of the year at Market Rasen Racecourse have gone on sale.

Well over 10,000 people spend Boxing Day afternoon at the races at Lincolnshire's only racecourse.

For many, the day out at the racecourse is as much about Christmas as turkey and mince pies.

Savings can be made by booking in advance.  The tickets are also popular Christmas presents for horse racing fans.

The County Enclosure is £21 when purchased in advance (£23 on the day); Tattersalls is £16 (£17); and the Family Enclosure is £10 (£11).  Premier tickets are a one-price £28 - and they sell out first.

For visitors wishing to make an extra special day of it - and again these packages are popular as presents - the Brocklesby Suite is £88 (it always sells out), while a Fish & Fizz package is £37, a County package is £30, a Tattersalls package is £23 and a Winter Warmer package is £25 in County and £20 in Tattersalls.

Fish & Fizz package: County Enclosure admission; raceday programme; glass of Champagne; seafood platter or hot dish of the day; and dessert.

County package: County Enclosure admission; raceday programme; dish of the day; pint of beer or lager / glass of wine; and £2 discounted tote betting voucher.

Tattersalls package: Tattersalls Enclosure admission; raceday programme; dish of the day; pint of beer or lager / glass of wine; and £2 discounted tote betting voucher.

Winter Warmer package: County/Tattersalls admission; raceday programme; Winter Pimm's or a pint of Crabbies Ginger Beer; and £2 discounted tote betting voucher.

Tickets for the event can be bought online at marketrasenraces.co.uk, by telephone on 08445 793009 or at the racecourse in person.

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For further information please contact:
Pip Kirkby, managing director, at Market Rasen Racecourse, on 01673 843434 or 07796 996081