Tag: horse racing

Musselburgh’s £430,000 Scottish Cheltenham Trials attracts top trainers this weekend 

Confirming the appeal of Musselburgh Racecourse’s bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials which benefits from a significant increase in prize money, legendary trainer Paul Nicholls is expected to make his first appearance at the East Lothian course this weekend.

Little wonder the two-day fixture, (3 and 4 February) which includes Musselburgh’s first £100,000 jumps race and a total £430,000 prize fund, has caught the eye of the 14 times champion trainer and his contemporaries.

In Saturday’s big ticket race, the bet365 Edinburgh National which at over 4 miles is a top draw for the country’s leading stayers, last year’s comfortable winner Magna Sam is among the thirteen declarations. Trained in Shropshire by Alistair Ralph, the ten-year-old will be looking for his fourth victory on this fifth visit to the track.

Liam Harrison and Fergal O’Brien, the Edinburgh National winning combination in 2022 with Captain Cattistock, are represented by Landen Calling, who won the Lincolnshire National at Market Rasen on Boxing Day.

Paul Nicholls, who boasts a 33 per-cent strike-rate with his Somerset raiders and has close to 150 Grade 1 winners to his credit, is double-handed with Truckers Lodge and Enrico, while Irish handler Gavin Cromwell saddles Peaches And Cream under rising star Ben Harvey and local favourite Lucinda Russell is responsible for another of the market principals, Inis Orr, who was fifth in the Lincolnshire equivalent.

The opening contest at 1.40pm, the £25,000 bet365 Frodon Novices’ Handicap Chase, carries the name of the horse ridden to so many memorable triumphs by Bryony Frost (course figures 6-16), who partners likely favourite Monmiral for Paul Nicholls.

Frodon actually won this contest under Sam Twiston-Davies in 2017 and is now spending his retirement with Bryony, who recorded a treble on this card in 2020 after enjoying her first strike under Rules on the same day five years earlier.

In the bet365 Scottish County Handicap Hurdle (2.50pm) Nicholls also runs Afadil, successful in last year’s Scottish Triumph Hurdle, but shouldering top-weight is Sandy Thomson’s Benson, a recent all-the-way winner of the Hogmaneigh Handicap Hurdle on New Year’s Day over 2m 4f.

Donald McCain’s Collingham and the Nicky Richard’s trained Parisencore, first and second twelve months ago, are also in a typically-competitive line-up for this £30,000 challenge.

Nicky Richards-trained Florida Dreams, a Grade 2 bumper winner at Aintree on Grand National day last season, carries the colours of Dundee United director Jimmy Fyffe in the bet365 Scottish Stayers’ Novices’ Hurdle (3.25), while Midlothian owner Lynne Maclennon is represented by Got Your Back, an impressive maiden hurdle winner at Musselburgh in December for Donald McCain.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “We are delighted with the quality of entries over both days and are looking forward to an excellent weekend of quality jumps training at what is now established as one of the UK’s premier National Hunt festivals.”

Gate open on both days at 11.30am and provisional times for the first races are 1.40pm on Saturday and 1.20pm Sunday with the last race on both days at 4.35pm.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Musselburgh to host its most valuable jumps meeting

£430,000 bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials

Musselburgh Racecourse’s first ever £100,000 jumps race will be the centre piece of the £430,000 bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials next weekend which will attract some of the country’s best trainers and horses.

Long established as the premier trials for horses preparing for a tilt at the Cheltenham Festival and Aintree’s Grand National festive, the East Lothian course is in excellent condition for welcoming aspiring champions on 3 and 4 February.

Recently retired Frodon (King George VI Chase), Mighty Thunder (Scottish Grand National) and Greaneteen (Celebration Chase and Tingle Creek) are just three fine examples of Grade 1 champions who featured at previous Scottish Cheltenham Trials festivals.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “Jumps fans will struggle to find a better prospect next weekend than the bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials, which is one of the most ambitious programmes ever staged at Musselburgh.

“The £100,000 Edinburgh National (Saturday) is our richest ever jumps race and at over 4 miles it fits nicely in to the stayers’ programme for trainers eyeing up the Grand National and the Scottish Grand National.”

The same seven fixture card also features the £25,000 bet365 Frodon Novices’ Handicap Chase and the £30,000 bet365 Scottish County Hurdle, with ITV covering the first three races live and going better on Sunday with the first five contests broadcast.

On the second day of the festival Musselburgh debuts a new race, the £80,000 bet365 Scottish Champion Handicap Chase, which is aimed at the top two-and-a-half mile handicap chasers.

Farnsworth added: “We are excited to see the entries for this new race and also on the Sunday we have one of our most popular fixtures, the £40,000 bet365 Scottish Triumph Hurdle, which is Musselburgh’s only Class 1 race and is a proper test for the Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham.

“This weekend is by far the most valuable fixture yet staged at Musselburgh so we are expecting it will catch the attention of trainers the length and breadth of the country and we anticipate quantity and quality in the entries.”

Gate open on both days at 11.30am and provisional times for the first races are 1.40pm on Saturday and 1.20pm Sunday with the last race on both days at 4.35pm.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Musselburgh’s New Year’s Day racing heading for sell-out

Racegoers urged get on the front foot or risk missing out

THE UK’S leading racecourse is urging First Footers to get on the front foot if they want to secure their place at one of the most exciting days on the Scottish horse racing calendar.

Musselburgh Racecourse, recently named Champion Racecourse by its racing industry peers, reports that tickets are selling fast for its Tote New Year’s Day Meeting, signposting another potential 6,000 sell-out event.

The East Lothian track is pulling out the stops to make 1 January a day to remember with a Golden Ticket hunt featuring 24 top prizes, a Best Dressed Dog contest, and on the turf six thrilling jumps races with prize money of over £100,000.

Famous for its fashionable atmosphere, this event also invites New Year Day revellers to dress to impress and participate in the inaugural Style Awards hosted in partnership with Scottish fashion boutique, Tiger Lily Boutique.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We’re making this year’s event the biggest we’ve put on yet, with a host of thrilling competitions that could see some people win big.

“We’re excited about all of the fun aspects of the day, such as our best-dressed dog contest. I’m looking forward to seeing all the imaginative and wonderful outfits that our guests come up with for their furry friends.

“The Festive Luxe Domes have made a return this year which are always a hit, adding an extra layer of festive fun for racegoers who are lucky enough to bag one.

“I know everyone is just as excited as we are to see everyone well-dressed and having the time of their lives as they kick off 2024 with us.”

The New Year’s Day fixture is one of the most prestigious in Musselburgh’s jumps calendar, attracting top horses, jockeys, and trainers alike, and boasting huge prize money to match.

At £40,000, the most valuable race on the card is the ‘Auld Reekie’ Handicap Chase.

Last year’s winner was Minella Drama, ridden by champion jockey Brian Hughes and trained by Donald McCain.

The £30,000 Hair of The Dog Handicap Hurdle, also over a similar distance, was recently won by Benson, trained by Sandy Thomson, ridden by Ryan Mania, and owned by Dundee United director Jimmy Fyffe.

“First Footer” bus services – which have to be booked in advance – will ferry racegoers to and from the racecourse leaving from Penicuik, Dalkeith, Galashiels, Gorebridge, Dunbar, Haddington, and Edinburgh, ensuring easy transport to and from the East Lothian venue.

Additionally, attendees can experience the vibrant Highland Fling Marquee, with Scotland’s renowned ceilidh band, ‘Kilter’, delivering an electrifying performance to keep the energy high throughout the day.

Aisling added: “This year our Golden Ticket hunt will return, and we’ll be offering 24 hidden prizes around the venue. Those who come down to the racecourse will have the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

“We’ve been blown away by the response to the event so far and I’d urge anyone who is considering attending to grab tickets while you can and bring your family and friends too as it will be a fantastic day.”

Racegoers can enjoy a selection of Scotland’s finest street food, including offerings from Bonnie Burrito, Cheese on Coast, and special boozy hot chocolates.

Adult tickets are priced at £40 when booked online in advance, and entry is free for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult.

Gates open at 10.30 am, the first race is at 12.35 pm and the last race at 3.30 pm (subject to change) more information is available here:

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures

Those planning on attending the Tote New Year’s Day Meeting are encouraged to book their tickets quickly to avoid disappointment. To get a £5 discount per person, bookings must be made before midnight on December 31st.

Musselburgh hosts 25 race days annually and its ‘Sensational 6’ key race days include New Year’s Day, the bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend, Easter Saturday, The Edinburgh Cup, Ladies Day, and The Summer Finale weekend.

For further information on New Year’s Day and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/new-years-day-1-1-24

Musselburgh: Just Champion!

Local Racecourse gallops off with top award

Musselburgh Racecourse has been named as the Champion Racecourse at the 12th annual Racecourse Association (RCA) Showcase Awards.

The East Lothian track picked up three individual awards enroute to being named as the overall Champion for 2023 – the Racing Post Readers’ Award and the Marketing and Food & Beverage awards.

The Racing Post Readers’ Award asked the racing public to nominate their favourite racecourse based on raceday experience, customer service and value for money. Musselburgh scored the highest average across these metrics and polled almost 20% of the overall votes.

Musselburgh’s continued drive for excellence in Food & Beverage was evident in the Pinkie’s Deli, a Taste of Scotland’s Larder initiative. A move to more a locally-sourced and evidence-based menu was a resounding success with racegoers, with the racecourse seen as best-in-class throughout British racing for its fantastic food and drink offerings.

As a highly successful one-off event in 2019, the Corgi Derby returned to Musselburgh and this time was integral to a campaign which won the Marketing category.

Musselburgh’s use of data to target specific demographics and tailor the messaging, ticket packages and raceday experience was deemed best-in-class by the judges with the results clearly showing a hugely impressive return.

The East Lothian racecourse was also a Finalist in two other categories on the night, demonstrating a racecourse operating to the highest standards on multiple fronts, said the judges.

Musselburgh Racecourse General Manager Bill Farnsworth, said: “Musselburgh’s joins a small group of eight illustrious Showcase Champions and it certainly felt as if all the other racecourses represented at the Awards were particularly pleased that Musselburgh had won.

“I am incredibly proud of the team here at Musselburgh who have shown incredible resilience over the past few years and have been resolute in their commitment to the racecourse and to putting on a fantastic experience for our customers and participants.

“The staff at Musselburgh never stand still and are totally committed to making sure all our visitors have the best possible ‘Musselburgh’ experience. To deliver on so many levels with limited resources is a truly fantastic achievement and we can all be extremely proud of what Musselburgh has achieved.”

The gala event, held at Aintree Racecourse, was presented by the RCA and partnered by Great British Racing, Racing Together, the Racing Foundation and Racing Post.

Alongside Musselburgh’s three award wins and Champion crown, it was a fantastic night for Scottish Racing as a whole with wins for Hamilton Park, Perth and Ayr, while Kelso received a Highly Commended accolade from the independent judging panel.

RCA Chairman Wilf Walsh said: “Our class of 2023 represents a range of racecourses operating at the highest level in their respective fields and I am encouraged by the levels of innovation shown as we look to attract and retain racegoers.

“Musselburgh Racecourse are worthy Champions and join our esteemed Showcase list. With five Finalist nominations and three victories, there can be little doubt this is a racecourse team that deeply cares about their customers, participants and place within the local community.”

Musselburgh is back in action tomorrow (Thursday 30 November) with The Max Recycle Saltire Raceday. Gates open 10.30am and the first race is at 11.55am.

For more information and to book tickets visit here.

New Year’s Day racing set to get 2024 off to a flying start 

Annual race day revved up with “golden” opportunity to win huge prizes 

FIRST FOOTERS at Musselburgh Racecourse’s New Year’s Day Meeting will have a chance to land a Golden Ticket which secures an annual Grandstand Membership to a further 24 of the East Lothian course’s 2024 race meetings. 

To celebrate the 2024 New Year, 24 envelopes with fantastic prizes will be hidden around the course at the 1 January race day – with one containing a Golden Ticket which offers free priority entry and exclusive grandstand viewing at each fixture and tickets to other sensational racedays throughout the year.  

Musselburgh’s New Year’s Day Meeting is one of Scotland’s largest sporting events held on 1 January and usually attracts a 6000+ sell out attendance. Renowned for being a stylish affair, racegoers are also being encouraged to dress to impress for The Style Awards, with one of Scotland’s top luxury boutique’s soon to be announced as a fashion sponsor.  

Aisling Johnston, Marketing Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We are starting off 2024 with a flying start and promise to keep the festive fun going past the bells.  

“Each year we are adding exciting and fun elements to this day, perfect for a post-Christmas get together that has something for everyone. Glamour, music, festive culinary delights, lively entertainment and of course, top-class racing.  

“The Golden Ticket hunt is once again an exciting element, with eagle eyed guests having a chance to win entry to incredible days in the racing calendar.”

With more than £100,000 of prize money up for grabs, racegoers are set for a day of competitive jumps racing with the premier event the £40,000 Auld Reekie Handicap Stakes and £30,000 Hogmaneigh Hurdle taking centre stage.  

The racecourse continues to pull out all the stops at the annual event, offering “first footer” ticketed bus travel from Penicuik, Dalkeith, Galashiels, Gorebridge, Dunbar, Haddington and Edinburgh which will ferry revellers to and from the East Lothian venue.  

Revellers can enjoy the Highland Fling Marquee, with one of Scotland’s finest ceilidh bands, ‘Kilter’, performing their electrifying set to keep the adrenaline pumping all day long.  

Aisling added: “We can’t wait to keep the party going and I would encourage people to get their tickets soon to avoid disappointment, as the event is always a sell out and we predict this year will be no different. Ticket sales are ahead of last year’s event.” 

Some of Scotland’s finest street food vendors will be at the event, with top options on offer from the Bonnie Burrito, Cheese on Coast and an exclusive boozy hot chocolate with the choice of Cointreau, Bailey, and Amaretto from the Deli to keep the party goers warm.  

Early bird adult tickets for the New Years Day Meeting cost £35 when purchased before 27th November, saving £10 while concession and student tickets are available for £30. Children 17 years and under go free.  

Gates open at 10:30am, with the first race at 12:25pm and the last race at 15:20pm.

Race times are provisional and can be found here:
https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures 

Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 25 race days across the flat and jump racing season – weekend, midweek and evening.  

Every race day offers quality racing with outstanding facilities and an atmosphere to match. Its ‘Sensational 6’ includes New Year’s Day, The bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend, Easter Saturday, The Edinburgh Cup sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, Ladies Day and The Summer Finale weekend. 

For further information on New Years Day and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/new-years-day-1-1-24 

Passport amnesty period launched by Weatherbys for thoroughbred owners

INAUGURAL CENSUS REACHES 4,500 SUBMISSIONS

  • Weatherbys General Stud Book has launched a period of amnesty throughout November for owners of former racehorses needing to update their horse’s equine identification document (passport)
  • Throughout the month, owners will be able to update their horse’s passport without incurring the £32 administration fee
  • Initiative launched as Britain’s first ever Thoroughbred Census reaches 4,500 submissions
  • Complete the Thoroughbred Census here
  • Change of ownership application form available to download from here
  • Launch video can be viewed here

Weatherbys General Stud Book has launched a period of amnesty throughout November, meaning the first 500 owners in need of updating their horse’s equine identification document (passport) can do so without incurring the £32 administration fee.

The announcement comes as Britain’s inaugural Thoroughbred Census, launched by British Racing’s Horse Welfare Board in collaboration with research experts at Hartpury University, has reached a landmark of 4,500 submissions.

As the primary source of traceability for all thoroughbreds in Great Britain, new owners are required to update their horse’s passport within 30 days of new ownership. However, currently the compliance rate is estimated to be around 20%, meaning traceability of former racehorses becomes significantly reduced after their first step out of racing.

The Thoroughbred Census was introduced to improve the data bank on former racehorses and the lives they go on to lead, and to promote responsible ownership practices. So, in celebration of reaching 4,500 submissions, the amnesty period has been launched to encourage even more owners to update their passport when completing the census.

The period of amnesty started on Wednesday 1 November 2023 and ends on Thursday 30 November 2023. In order for Weatherbys General Stud Book to waive the fee, owners will need to complete a paper change of ownership application form and send along with their passport.

The amnesty is available for the first 500 applications. Change of ownership application form can be downloaded here, with more information on how to submit here.

Helena Flynn, Programme Director, Horse Welfare Board, said: “The equine identification document (passport) amnesty is a significant moment in our continued efforts to improve the traceability of thoroughbreds in Great Britain, once retired from racing.

The initial uptake of the Thoroughbred Census from owners across the country has been really positive, but the job is far from complete, and an industry-wide push is still required to promote and encourage owners of all former racehorses to participate. Whether a horse has been retired to a field or is an RoR champion, we want to know about them.”

Sharon O’Regan, General Manager, Weatherbys General Stud Book, said: “Ensuring that all thoroughbreds go on to live happy and healthy lives after retiring from racing is a cause important to all of us within the sport.

“Since the start of the campaign we have already seen an uplift in people updating their passports which is fantastic. Whilst the ongoing cost of maintaining our systems and database is significant we do appreciate that paying for the change in ownership is perhaps a barrier for some.

“Therefore we hope that waiving this cost for a period of time to support the census initiative will make a difference and encourage even more thoroughbred owners to bring these details up to date. The more complete our database, the more confidence there will be when considering welfare matters around all thoroughbreds not just those currently racing or breeding.”

Eligibility criteria for equine identification document (passport) amnesty:

  • The horse has formerly been registered with a British licensed trainer or has competed on a British racecourse.
  • The owner has completed the 2023 Thoroughbred Census for the horse for which they are completing the change of ownership.
  • Completed form and passport must be received by Weatherbys General Stud Book between 1 November 2023 and 30 November 2023.
  • Horses with an FEI passport are NOT eligible to participate.
  • Change of ownership for breeding purposes will NOT be eligible for the amnesty.
  • Only the first 500 submissions will be eligible for the amnesty.

All owners of former racehorses are being asked to complete the Thoroughbred Census between 28 June – 31 December 2023, with the primary objective of helping to improve the traceability of thoroughbreds after they have been retired from racing. The census requests information on each horse’s passport number, microchip number, age, current residence, second career, and more to provide a robust view of the 2023 British retired racehorse population.

With improved data, British Racing and its aftercare charity, Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), can better support owners with access to educational resources and routes to compete if desired, as well as continue to build informed and helpful communities. Improved data at this stage of a thoroughbred’s life can also help the Horse Welfare Board and RoR improve and adapt welfare initiatives and will, most importantly, enable fast and effective contact in the event of an equine disease outbreak.

As a result of the campaign to date, Weatherbys General Stud Book has reported an increase of 44% in the number of equine identification document (passport) updates compared to this time last year.

The 2023 Thoroughbred Census can be completed online here, before closing on 31 December 2023. Completion of the census is not compulsory, but owners are strongly encouraged to join the community and participate. Full results will be reported during the first quarter of 2024.

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High five for Musselburgh Racecourse shortlisted in major industry awards

Musselburgh Racecourse leads the field with five nominations in the racing industry’s RCA Showcase Awards.

The East Lothian track has been shortlisted in the marketing, food & beverage, raceday, Racing Post Readers’ Award and the RCA/ROA Owner’s Racecourse of the Year categories.

York Racecourse is in the running with four nominations while all five Scottish racecourses have been nominated, with Hamilton Park listed in three categories.

Musselburgh’s hugely popular Corgi Derby on the opening day of the Flat season – which attracted national headlines – is in the running for winning the marketing award, while the annual Luca’s Ice Cream Family Day is listed in the Raceday award.

In the Racecourse of the Year category, Musselburgh is up against strong opposition from Newbury, York, Bangor-on-Dee and Hamilton Park.

The eight core categories in the Showcase Awards are chosen to reflect the diverse operation of a racecourse, while two public-voted awards offering customers the opportunity to have their say and crown their racecourse of the year in raceday and owners’ experience.

Paul Swain, Head of Raceday Experience & Communications at the RCA, said: “This list represents the best of British racecourses over the past 12 months and demonstrates their commitment to providing a fantastic experience for participants and racegoers alike.

“Our independent judging panel commented on the high standard of entries this year which was evident when considering the scores awarded. There is an abundance of best practice that should be replicated across the sport and the RCA will ensure this is front and centre of our raceday experience programme in 2024.”

The Showcase Awards ceremony will be hosted by Aintree Racecourse on 23 November.

Musselburgh Racecourse promises kids’ paradise of free treats and family fun

Lucas Ice Cream Family Day set to hit the sweet spot 

A FREE ice cream for every child will be on offer at Musselburgh Racecourse thanks to Luca’s Ice Cream as it hosts a family friendly raceday in partnership with legendary local brand, S.Luca Dairy Ice Cream.  

With schools out for the summer, the venue has announced the return of its hugely popular summer extravaganza with loads of free activities for the youngsters, and some thrilling horseracing for the adults.  

Lucas Ice Cream Family Day will take place on 25 July 2023, offering pony rides, kids disco, face painting, chill out teepees and fairground rides – all free of charge for children aged 17 and under, including their entry.  

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager for Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to partner up with the delicious Lucas Ice Cream and invite families along to relax, have fun, create lifelong memories and of course, indulge in some seriously good ice cream! 

“Our dedicated kid’s Clip Clop Zone features some great activities for all ages, while the kid’s disco is sure to provide some quality entertainment – especially for the parents! 

“There will also be two special guest kid’s TV mascots in attendance. We won’t reveal who it will be just yet, but lucky little ones will have the chance for an exclusive meet and greet!” 

There will be six exciting flat races going on throughout the day, as well as some uniquely engaging pony races to delight spectators.  

A selection of delectable street food options will also be available, with attendees having the option to further elevate their event experience with special food and drink packages, including a Well Hung and Tender burger and beer package, before washing it down with some refreshing frozen treats.    

Lucas Ice Cream, which originates in Musselburgh, partnered with the racecourse for this fun-filled event to provide luxury ice cream to visitors, renowned for its smooth textures and magnificent flavours. 

Yolanda Luca, owner of Lucas Ice Cream, said: “As a family-owned company, it’s fantastic to be involved with an event of such value, being able to connect with the local community throughout the day. 

“We can’t wait to see everyone’s smiling faces and hope that the free ice cream adds an extra magical touch!” 

Gates for the event will open at 12pm, with the first race beginning at 2:30pm and the final race commencing at 5:20pm. 

Children 17 years and undergo free when accompanied by an adult, and tickets purchased before midnight on 24 July 2023 will save £2 per person. 

Located just six miles from the city centre, direct public transport links are available along with a courtesy bus from Wallyford and Newcraighall train stations. 

General admission prices are £23 when booked online and then £25 on the day of the event. All timings are provisional and subject to change. 

Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing season – weekend, midweek, and evening.  

To book your tickets for Lucas Ice Cream Family Day now, please visit:

 www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/lucas-ice-cream-family-day-2023 

Friday night frolics at Musselburgh Racecourse

Scotland’s summer weather is expected to boost the attendance at Musselburgh’s popular Friday night meeting on 23 June.

The Construction & Property Recruitment Friday 90’s Race Night kickstarts the weekend for many racegoers who flock to the East Lothian track.

And with its 90’s theme and post racing After Party hosted by Forth One’s leading presenter Boogie in the Morning, it’s a big draw for racing fans keen to let their hair down and make the most of the summer sun.

The 5-star racing venue is making it easier for guests to get to and from Edinburgh city centre with ticketed bus services, while those taking the train can make use of a courtesy bus service from Wallyford and Newcraighall stations.

To further whet the appetite, some of Scotland’s leading street food vendors are on-site, including Slum Dog, Dog n Bon and Bonnie Burrito, while the racecourse’s own Pinkies Deli offers dishes which appeal to all.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “With seven thrilling Flat races, followed by an exciting 90’s After Party, where else is better to make the most of these fantastic summer evenings we’ve been enjoying.

“Dressing up is not essential but we hope many will throw on their favourite 90’s outfit and if race goers are too young to have experienced the 90’s first time around, now is their chance to see what all the fuss was about.”

Racegoers who book tickets before 22 June will save £2 per person on the £25 admission fee.

Gates open at 4pm on 23 June, the first race is off at 5.30pm and the last race is scheduled for 9pm, with the After Party lasting approximately one hour after the final race.

As with all Musselburgh race meetings, children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

For more information and to book tickets please visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Shorter distance but higher quality for Musselburgh’s Edinburgh Cup today

Shortening the distance of the £40,000 Edinburgh Cup at Musselburgh today (Sat 3 June) seems to have appealed to Middleham trainer Charlie Johnston who is triple-handed in the nine furlong handicap.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager Bill Farnsworth revealed earlier that trimming the race from 12 furlongs (1 ½ miles) to just 1⅛ mile was done to attract a larger quality field of three year olds.

Farnsworth said: “At this time of year the pool of three year old horses who can run 12 furlongs is quite small so by reducing The Edinburgh Cup to nine furlongs, that little drop in distance could lead to a bigger quality field.

“By changing the distance the race now provides the ideal steppingstone to the Britannia Handicap for 3 year olds over 8f (1 mile) or the Golden Gates Handicap for 3 year olds over 10f (1 ¼m) at Royal Ascot in mid-June.”

Johnston, now operating with his sole name on the license, will be represented by Venetian, Lion Of War and Gareeb, who is partnered by stable jockey Joe Fanning.

Top-weight, under 9st 9lb, is Coco Jack from the Newmarket stable of George Scott, who has only had one previous runner – without success – at Musselburgh, while Ian Williams-trained Dancing In Paris arrives in great heart having already won at Haydock and finished a close second at Sandown this spring.

Lightly-raced Old Smoke, from the Richard Fahey camp, wasn’t beaten far in the London Gold Cup at Newbury recently while Keith Dalgleish’s Iato’s Angel was only just pipped over course and distance in a fillies’ handicap in April.

The second £40,000 race, The Queen of Scots Fillies’ Stakes, is Musselburgh’s only Class 1 Listed Flat race of the season and the Musselburgh boss reckons this is probably the best race in Scotland for fillies and mares.

Heredia is the likely market-leader and trained in Wiltshire by Richard Hannon, she beat 27 rivals in last year’s Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

White Moonlight, representing Saeed bin Suroor, was a close runner-up in Group 2 company during the winter in Dubai, and Basil Martini, just the third runner at the track for Irish handler Joseph O’Brien, won a Group 3 contest at the Curragh last autumn.

The Edinburgh Cup Raceday, sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, is also Derby Day and Musselburgh’s first race has been brought forward to the slightly earlier 1.15pm slot in support of the main Epsom classic, which is off at 1.30pm and will be shown throughout the East Lothian track.

“Derby Day is a huge day for racing and it adds an extra dimension to our own fixture, with an extra buzz around the place and everyone gathered in front of our big screens,” added Farnsworth.

“For those unable to be at Epsom itself, Musselburgh offers a great experience to soak up the unique atmosphere that turf racing creates and we expect a big crowd today.”

Gates open at 11.30am, the first race is at 1.15pm and the last race at 4.50pm. Tickets will cost £40 on the day for adults, while children aged 17 and under go for free. Concession tickets will cost £25 on the day for those who are eligible.

For more information and to book tickets please visit:

 www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk