Tag: horse racing

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

Local focus on music line-up for Edinburgh’s raceday

Prestigious event calls on racegoers to get suited and booted for dancing 

A TRIO of popular bands will ensure excitement levels at one of Scotland’s most anticipated racedays are kept high once on-track competition comes to a close. 

Musselburgh Racecourse has unveiled the musical line-up set to get the Edinburgh Cup crowd jumping, featuring popular local and Scottish talent. 

Taking to the stage will be Edinburgh-based bands The Zebra Three and Chameleon Lady, who will help get racegoers moving and singing along at the After-Race Party. Completing the line-up will be The Soundtrax, one of Scotland’s most popular party bands. 

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “This year’s Edinburgh Cup is a real celebration of all things Edinburgh. 

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the racecourse, and with such great musical talent on display, The Edinburgh Cup promises to be full of entertainment and one not to miss. 

“The bands offer a wide and entertaining range of music that we think those attending will love. We can’t wait to see the performers take to the stage for an hour after the last race takes place and provide some excellent music.” 

Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course features again this year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail fans to match the high-quality racing on display. 

Along with tasty refreshments, those attending can expect a celebration of Edinburgh’s best culinary delights to go with the  7 thrilling races, with a total of £139,000 up for grabs in prize money. 

Revellers are also being encouraged to dress to impress as a host of photo opportunities are located around the racecourse, with prizes up for grabs for people who share their images on social media. 

Headlining the after-party will be folk rock band, Chameleon Lady, who is fronted by singer Cameron Middlemass. 

Speaking on playing at the event, Cameron said: “To be asked to headline the After-Racing Party is a privilege, we’re excited and looking forward to performing. 

“It’s our first proper headline gig at Musselburgh Racecourse and we’re excited, the punters are great so it will be a good Saturday. 

Speaking on why people should come to the raceday, Cameron added: “Musselburgh Racecourse has more of a community vibe, so much is going on with food and bars, if you’re someone who isn’t that big on racing there is so much there anyway for you to be excited by.” 

High-energy band The Soundtrax band members have also spoken about their excitement to play at The Edinburgh Cup. The band’s singer, Angus Johnston, said: “We are super excited to be performing for the Musselburgh crowd. 

“Getting to perform for big crowds on big occasions is what every musician aspires to achieve. Couple that with what we are sure will be an electric atmosphere, thanks to some top-class racing, and it should be an amazing day. 

“Our music is all energy, we are an out and out party band, and our goal is always to get people dancing. If you fancy a boogie today, then come and boogie with us!” 

The Soundtrax guitarist Jim O’Neil added: “We’re going to get off the stage into the crowd, onto the dance floor and dance with people, we’ll get conga lines on the go, and it will be maximum party mode. 

“Days like this at the races are the best kind of gigs, they are just the most fun.” 

Returning to the stage will be Dalkeith based The Zebra Three, who will kick up some nostalgia as they play pop rock and rare cheese from the 60’s and 70’s. 

Singer and guitarist James Mackintosh said: “We’re delighted to be performing at such a great scene, it’s always a great atmosphere, especially if the weather is good, which makes for a great day. 

“It’s all about the atmosphere, when people come to the races, everyone is in a good mood. 

The band also comprises of Kenny Hutchison on bass and vocals, along with his son Robbie Hutchison who plays on drums. 

Speaking on the father-son duo playing together, James said: “Robbie is a very accomplished drummer, it’s just great that he wants to play with two older guys!” 

The Zebra Three will be kicking off the day between 11:30 to 13:05, followed by The Soundtrax between races from 13:20 to 16:40 and Chameleon Lady headlining the After-Party following the last race, from between 16:55-18:00. 

Revellers can benefit from £5 saving per person when tickets are purchased before 12pm on 2nd June, with gate admission costing £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult. 

Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm. 

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

For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/the-edinburgh-cup-2023

Edinburgh Cup returns with delights on and off the track

No long faces at Musselburgh Racecourse ahead of sensational raceday

THE COUNTDOWN is on to one of the most prestigious events in the Scottish racing calendar which promises a bumper offering for revellers both on and off the track.

With over £135,000 in the prize pot, The Edinburgh Cup Raceday sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, will take place on Derby Day on 3 June and will feature two of the most valuable races staged at Musselburgh Racecourse.

The event commonly referred to as ‘Edinburgh’s raceday’ is a dedicated celebration of the vibrant capital city with attendees getting an opportunity to enjoy a day packed full of entertainment and an array of Scotland’s best street food offerings to indulge in.

Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course has seen activities build year on year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail-fans to match the high-quality racing on display.

As well as eight-person gin domes and specially created drinks at bars around the course, the Edinburgh Gin tipple trailer will debut slushies alongside more traditional drinks and botanical-inspired cocktails.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Edinburgh Gin is a fitting partner to make one of the summer season’s social and sporting highlights.

“Revellers will be able to try the very best gin the capital has to offer while enjoying the racing and day’s festivities – which includes the Epsom Derby.

“The partnership matches Edinburgh Gin’s innovative and creative approach to gin production with our ambition to continually break down barriers, and we’re excited to showcase the best Musselburgh Racecourse and Edinburgh Gin have to offer on this exciting date in the summer Flat season.”

With the sought-after Edinburgh Gin domes already sold out for the Edinburgh Cup racegoers, visitors are being urged to book tickets now, with those booking before midnight on the 2 June saving £5 per person.

Aisling Johnston added: “Edinburgh Gin is a well-loved brand, and we believe its presence will bring an even greater sense of fun to events for guests by incorporating competitions and novelty features into the raceday.

“We look forward to welcoming the crowds to Musselburgh Racecourse on 3 June to enjoy what promises to be a spectacular day with a G&T in hand.”

Neil Boyd, Managing Director at Edinburgh Gin said: “Edinburgh Gin is delighted to once again sponsor the esteemed Edinburgh Cup at Musselburgh Racecourse, a wonder-filled day out for all concerned.

“We are very proud of our Edinburgh roots; our distillery lies in the heart of this great city and we continue to support local events that bring people together in the spirit of good fun and friendly competition.

“We will be raising a glass on 3June to the Edinburgh Cup and an exciting raceday ahead.”

Bill Farnsworth, Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse said: “The Edinburgh Cup is always a fantastic day of celebrations for everyone.

“The partnership between Edinburgh Gin and the Edinburgh Cup brings together the finest spirits and the finest horses for an unparalleled racing experience.

“We look forward to working with Edinburgh Gin to make it a day to remember for racing fans and Gin fans alike.”

Racegoers don’t need to worry about on-the-day transport as tickets are available on the Musselburgh Racecourse website for return tickets to Edinburgh. Buses will leave Waterloo Place in the city centre at 11:15 and return at 18:00, helping to provide a seamless experience. All return tickets are only £10 per person.

Edinburgh Cup Raceday gate admission is £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 years and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm.

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

For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/the-edinburgh-cup-2023

AND THEY’RE OFF! Strachan House sprinters are jumping for joy

Residents and staff at Strachan House care home in Edinburgh enjoyed celebrating the Grand National last week when the released their own Strachan House sprinters, which joined in a fitness session on Friday 14th April.

Sadly despite our residents putting them through their paces our horses never made it to the big one on Saturday! 

Residents and staff got together to watch the races, and celebrated in style by having an afternoon of fitness and music which entailed not only two race horses joining us but a good old friend Mr T Rex. Mr T Rex is also a firm favourite with the residents and has made a few guest appearances in the past. As always it was hilarity from start to finish. 

Mandy Head of Activities said “we are always finding different fun ways to keep our residents active and engaged and this was certainly a fun way to end the week. Everyone wanted a sneaky dance with Mr Rex not to mention the fun exercise session that our horses demonstrated.

!Sometimes you just have to have some out right fun and laughter and this afternoon certainly had everyone jumping for joy!”

Gordon Philp, General Manager at the home, said: “We’ve had a fantastic time celebrating Aintree’s Ladies Day, it is such a great session and we all had fun cheering on the horses and jockeys as they joined in the getting fit with the residents – although that Mr Rex was eyeing up one of horses as a tasty snack!”

Moira Ingram, a resident at the home, commented: “I love the staff when they dress up, it is such a fantastic spectacle and I’m sure the laughter could been heard in the streets. 

“I haven’t got a clue about horse racing, but it certainly was comical to watch!”

The varied life enrichment programme at Strachan House keeps residents active and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.

Strachan House is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides nursing care, residential care, respite care.

Musselburgh Racecourse set for a photo finish at Easter extravaganza

Revellers back in the saddle for highest value raceday of 2023

ONE of the UK’s most stylish racecourses is urging revellers to snap up tickets for one of its richest racing events of the year – with a total of £226,000 worth of prize money to be awarded across the day.

Musselburgh Racecourse’s Easter Saturday raceday will take place on 8 April with a series of key races taking place throughout the day including the venue’s highest value race – the prestigious Queen’s Cup.

This year, the Queen’s Cup will be presented by Judy Murray, with £100,000 up for grabs. The race received its name following Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Musselburgh Racecourse for its Bicentenary Raceday in 2016. The racecourse has a proud Royal heritage with The Queen’s Stand also opened by Princess Anne.

The Racecourse’s Easter Saturday event – is set to be the biggest yet, with ITV Racing covering the entire day.

Other exciting races that will take place on Easter Saturday include the Royal Mile Handicap, the Silver Arrow and Scotland’s fastest race, the Scottish Sprint Cup, which attracts top sprinters from across the country.

Gordon Brown, Race Reporter for Scottish Racing, said: “The Easter Saturday event at Musselburgh Racecourse is set to be one of prominence in the horseracing calendar.

“Some of the fastest horses in the country have scorched to victory in the Scottish Sprint Cup with the runners galloping quicker than the legal speed limit on the adjacent road into Musselburgh town!

“The five-furlong track record was smashed in this race in 2018 when the Alastair Rawlinson-partnered Caspian Prince stopped the clock at an electrifying 56.77 seconds. 

“Last year’s impressive winner of the prestigious Queen’s Cup was Ian Williams-trained horse Enemy, who has since just been pipped in a contest at Ascot, won a race at the Dubai Carnival and picked up a staggering £416,666 for finishing a close second at Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.

“The event marks a major day in racing and I’m looking forward to seeing how the entries will perform. For spectators, it really will be a sight to behold and not only that, there will be a host of entertainment throughout the course of the day’s celebrations.”

With a series of packages already sold out, the racecourse is anticipating a capacity attendance with a blend of action-packed racing, music and first-class food offerings.

The East Lothian venue will be bringing back its popular ‘Pommery domes’ for the event – which were a huge hit on New Year’s Day – with a bottle of Pommery Champagne and charcuterie board to enjoy while soaking up the race day atmosphere.

After the last race, racegoers will be able to dance the night away with the memorable ‘Funkwagen’ party experience – a DJ set-up in a vintage Volkswagen van.

Vendors will include some of Scotland’s best street food offerings, such as Well Hung and Tender’s burgers and chips, Dog N Bon’s hot dogs and loaded fries, Bonnie Burrito’s Mexican cuisine and NeeNaw fire engine’s wood fired Neapolitan style pizzas.

Aisling Johnston, Marketing Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Easter Saturday is one of our biggest social events in the calendar. It promises to be a day full of music, dancing, delicious food, champagne bars and of course, first-class racing.

“So, strap on your best dancing shoes and come and join us for an unforgettable Easter experience. Tickets are selling quickly, so act now to have the chance of grabbing one for yourself – you won’t regret it!”

Purchasing a ticket before midnight on the 7th April will result in a saving of £5 per person. On the day gate admission will be £35. Children 17 years and under go free.

Gates open at 11:30am, with the first race at 13:50pm and the last race at 17:20pm. Times are provisional and can be found here: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures

Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 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, Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend, Easter Saturday, The Edinburgh Cup sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, Stobo Castle Ladies Day and The Summer Finale weekend.

For further information on Easter Saturday and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/easter-saturday-08-04-2023

Musselburgh Racecourse kicks off jumps season with new race in honour of the late Duke of Edinburgh

A new race commemorating the HRH Prince Philip will be launched tomorrow (Wednesday 2 Nov) at the opening meeting of Musselburgh Racecourse’s jumps season.

The East Lothian course received Royal approval to mark the late Duke of Edinburgh’s visits to the course by staging the Prince Philip Perpetual Challenge Cup, a £25,000 stayers’ chase over three and a half miles.

Highlights of Musselburgh’s 11-fixture National Hunt season include the traditional New Year’s Day meeting, the bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials weekend in early February, and the Go North festival in late March.

With advance ticket sales for New Year’s Day doing well, racecourse general manager Bill Farnsworth revealed the track capacity has been increased to 7,000, which if it sells out would be a modern day record attendance at a Musselburgh jumps meeting.

He said: “We were heading for a sell-out last New Year’s Day but due to the pre-Christmas Covid spike the meeting had to be held behind-closed doors. That was obviously very disappointing, but we hope to build on this to kick off 2023 in great style, and with a full house at Musselburgh there is no better place to be on the first of January.”

On top of an excellent race card, race goers will have the added bonus of witnessing the running of the world’s oldest amateur athletics race as the famous New Year Sprint returns to Musselburgh after a short break.

The bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials over the weekend of 4-5 February will boast prize money of more than £250,000 with the Scottish County Hurdle and Edinburgh National races on the Saturday carrying prize money of £40,000 and £50,000, respectively.

The feature race on the Sunday is the Scottish Triumph Hurdle Trial which has increased prize money from £25,000 to £40,000. Bill Farnsworth added: “This is Musselburgh’s only Class 1 race and with the support of the British Horseracing Authority, which recognised our Triumph Hurdle as a key prep race for the Cheltenham showpiece in March, we are delighted to have been able to increase the prize fund.”

The Go North Race Day on Friday 24 March closes Musselburgh’s jumps season and is part of a weekend festival of racing which includes Kelso and Carlisle racecourses. Go North celebrates the horses and trainers who have competed on the Northern circuit throughout the winter months and features seven £30,000 finals over the three tracks.

Bill Farnsworth added: “We had a great crowd at last year’s Go North finale and hope to repeat that in 2023 but we have a lot of racing to get through before that. The course is in fantastic condition and we can’t wait to get started and to welcome people back for an exciting jumps season.”

To find out more information, full fixture details, and to book tickets, visit:

www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Marvellous Musselburgh Gold Cup seeks Superheroes

Musselburgh Racecourse’s final hurrah of the summer is set for an invasion of superheroes with next month’s Musselburgh Gold Cup Family Raceday.

Proving that racing isn’t just for the adults, the whole family is invited to embrace Superheroes Day with entertainment celebrating some of Marvel and DC’s most daring characters – from Batman and Spiderman to Captain America and Bumblebee.

Taking place on Sunday, September 11 and marking the last of The Sensational 7 Series of the year, the event invites youngsters to dress up as their favourite superhero or character in costume for a day at the races filled with family fun.

In the words of Spiderman’s Uncle Ben, with great power comes great responsibility – to enjoy yourself … !

Children 17 years and under are admitted free, when accompanied by a paying adult, and can enjoy the Clip Clop kids zone with children’s rides and superhero shows, prizes for the kids in the best dressed superhero or character costume, chill out tepee, bubbles and the ever-popular face-painting – all included in the ticket price. If that isn’t enough, they can also enjoy the day at the kids disco.

Alongside all the family fun, the East Lothian track is hosting an afternoon of equally exciting, top-quality racing and the raceday packages Musselburgh is renowned for, including picnic table reservations, dining at the Harris Tweed Bistro plus Fish & Chips and Gourmet Hot Dog options.

The Musselburgh Gold Cup over two miles, is one of the three feature races carrying £25,000 in prize money. Last year it was won by Haizoom, trained at Carluke by Keith Dalgleish and four out of the last five favourites have been successful.

Dumfriesshire-based Iain Jardine is another trainer from Scotland that has won this staying event which has also gone to horses from Newmarket and Yorkshire in the past.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse said: “We’ve had a fantastic summer season and we want to go out on a high, with an event that brings together the whole family for a spectacular finale.

“We can’t wait. Bring on the invasion of the superheroes, we’re ready for them!”

Tickets for The Musselburgh Gold Cup Family Raceday are now on sale and booking before midnight on the 26th August will save £10.00 off the raceday gate admission price (£30.00). Children 17 years and under are admitted FREE at Musselburgh Racecourse when accompanied by a paying adult. 

Concession tickets are available at the gate on the day for £15 per person.

For a full range of ticket information please visit https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/afternoon-meeting-11-09-22

Tickets for the Summer Finale Raceday on Saturday 10th September are also available for purchase. To find out more information about this day and the additional 28 fixtures throughout the year, please visit https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Musselburgh Racecourse Stobo Castle Ladies Day crowns winners of The Style Awards 2022

Scotland’s biggest and most prestigious 5-star Ladies Day held on Friday 5th August at Musselburgh Racecourse in East Lothian, has announced the winners for this year’s Style Awards.

Newly launched for 2022, the competition looking for style, elegance and individuality was judged by leading Scottish stylists and influencers including Eva Arrighi, Laura Russell, Amee Young, and Maggie Smith.

Commenting on the judging process, Eva Arrighi stylist and judge at Stobo Caste Ladies Day said: “Ladies Day is synonymous with getting dressed up, and each year we see a collection of stunning styles and fashions.

“This year we are looking at the evolution of style and the competition was steep with so many amazing outfits worn by both the ladies and gentlemen attending the event.”

The top awards on the day for the most stylish attendees went to:

  • The winner of the Style Awards 2022 – Aneela Afzal (Edinburgh)
  • 2nd placed winner was Heather Burnside (Dalkeith)
  • 3rd place winner was Ryan Young (Eyemouth)
  • Most stylish Hat was awarded to Josephine Lynas (Dunfermline)

This year’s winner bagged an exclusive visit to Champagne Pommery with a guided tour of the Domaine including the Clos Pompadour vineyard, the Pommery cuverie and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed chalk cellars.

This glamorous prize also includes £1,500 spending money, tutored tastings, overnight accommodation at a 4* hotel in the centre of Reims, taxi transfers and lunch at Le Réfectoire at the Pommery Domaine, including a bottle of Pommery Brut Apanage NV.

The second prize winner received a spa day and lunch for two from title sponsors Stobo Castle and the third-placed runner-up won a bottle of Pommery and a £50 gift voucher for Musselburgh Races. There was also a prize for Best Hat at Musselburgh Ladies Day and the winner won a £300 voucher to exchange at Edinburgh Hat Studio, the studio of prestigious Edinburgh milliner Sally-Ann Provan.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We were delighted to welcome back thousands of spectators to enjoy our stylish sell out Stobo Castle Ladies Day. It’s always a great day out and such a fabulous opportunity for people to really get dressed up – and this year they didn’t disappoint.”

After the last race, TV presenter, model and DJ, Vogue Williams continued the glamourous theme of the day and entertained the crowds by taking to the decks to keep the party atmosphere going well into the evening.

Highlights from the £90,000 raceday included Sir Chauvelin, at the age of ten, being the oldest in the line-up to win a thrilling renewal of the So Stobo Platinum Jubilee Handicap by a short-head from Dark Jedi.

Scottish trainer Linda Perratt struck with a double courtesy of Chinese Spirit and Monhammer. The former landed the opening Champagne Pommery Rose Magnum by the minimum margin of a nose while the latter was a comfortable scorer of the Mcewan Fraser Handicap.

Arrange, trained in Cumbria by Martin Todhunter, was the most impressive winner of the afternoon as she blitzed home under top-weight by over seven lengths in the concluding Champagne Pommery Cuvee Louise Handicap.

Stobo Castle Ladies Day is part of the Sensational 7 Series and tickets for 2023 will go on sale from tomorrow at www.musselburghracecourse.co.uk.

Tickets to The Summer Finale are also selling fast, so book now to avoid disappointment.

Crane specialist Bernard Hunter gets a lift at Musselburgh’s Friday Night at the Races

A well-known Edinburgh company will celebrate its 75th year in businesses by sponsoring Musselburgh Racecourse’s popular Friday Night at the Races.

Long term racecourse supporter Bernard Hunter was founded in 1946 and is synonymous with mobile crane hire and metal recycling, employing around 60 staff in Leith, Danderhall and at its Gilmerton headquarters.

One of the firm’s new 60-ton cranes will be on display at the East Lothian track on Friday (29 July) as the family-run business, led by chairman Jim Rafferty and managing director Mark Rafferty, welcome guests to celebrate the landmark birthday.

Mark Rafferty said: “We have been corporate sponsors at Musselburgh since 2007 where we have sponsored certain races and its always a great day out, and we were delighted to sponsor the popular Friday Night at the Races to mark this special occasion.”

The competitive six race meeting includes the Bernard Hunter Mobile Crane’s nursery handicap five furlong dash and the seven furlong Bernard Hunter 75th Anniversary Race, with gates open at 4.30pm and first race off at 6.10pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse marketing manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “With the weather forecast looking like it will be a warm sunny evening what better way to kick star the weekend out in the open air and enjoying the thrill of Flat racing on the coast.

“Bernard Hunter have been a great supporter of Musselburgh Racecourse and we are delighted they have chosen to celebrate a special birthday here on Friday. With Radio Forth’s Boogie in the Morning and Funkwagen providing the entertainment after racing, we are sure it will be a night to remember.”

Racegoers with valid concession ID can take advantage of a special £15 gate admission ticket, and anyone booking in advance can save £5 on the raceday £25 admission price.

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

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

Racecourse has it licked with free ice cream at Luca’s Ice Cream Family Day

Musselburgh Racecourse have got it licked at their next race meeting where they will be giving away a free ice cream to every child.

Teaming up with legendary Honest Toun ice cream maker, S Luca, the East Lothian course’s Luca’s Ice Cream Family Day on Tuesday 19 July has something for kids of all ages.

The afternoon gets underway with the always popular pony racing taking place on the home straight in front of the grandstand, approximately one hour before racing gets underway, and setting the tone for an exciting family day out.

Adding to the high summer festivities, Forth 1 breakfast king Boogie in the Morning will host a children’s disco during the afternoon.

With free fairground rides and free face painting keeping the kids fully entertained, adults can enjoy the thrill of the Flat with seven competitive races kicking off at 1.50pm.

As with all Musselburgh race meetings, children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult, and once inside the racecourse all children’s entertainment is free.

S Luca has been selling ice cream in Musselburgh since 1908 and it is still made to an old family recipe using locally sourced milk, butter and double cream.

The company founder, Luca Scappaticcio, originally from Cassino between Rome and Naples,  learned the art of ice cream making from a Swiss chef when he worked in the kitchens of the North British Hotel on Princes Street in the early part of last century.

Today, still run by family members, S Luca sell their ice cream from what is possibly the world’s only Rolls Royce ice cream van – which was built in 1923 for the Marquis De San Miguel and purchased by Luca Scappaticcio in 1937 and converted for commercial use.

Aisling Johnston, Musselburgh Racecourse’s commercial manager, said: “With the support of Luca, we are dishing up their delicious ice cream free to all  kids, while legendary radio presenter Boogie is in charge of the music and dancing.

“Before the racing gets underway we also have pony racing and other entertainments during the day, including fairground rides and face painting, are all free. For mums and dads, grans and grandads and all other family members, the first of our seven Flat races is off just before 2pm.

“It promises to be a fantastic day out and there are a wide range of food and drink options available for all budgets and to satisfy all tastes.”

Gates open at noon on Tuesday 19 July, the first race is at 1.50pm and the last race is at 5.15pm.

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