Tag: Musselburgh Racecourse

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 

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

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

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 unveils Easter extravaganza

Neigh ‘horsing around’ as East Lothian venue hosts highest value raceday this year

PARTYGOERS, families and sports enthusiasts will don their most royal outfits as they flock to the Easter Saturday meeting at Musselburgh Racecourse.

Celebrations will take place on 8 April and will culminate in the venue’s highest value race, the prestigious Queen’s Cup, with £100,000 worth of prize money.

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

For families, an abundance of free activities for young ones are on offer, with a dedicated ‘Clip Clop Zone,’ offering free funfair rides for all ages and face painting. 

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, street food vendors, champagne bars and of course, first-class racing.

“We also have a host of free entertainment planned for those looking to bring the little ones, including the return of the hugely popular and highly-anticipated Easter Bunny which is sure to go down a treat! The best part is that all kids under 17 are free when accompanied by an adult.

“With a huge variety of exciting activities planned, there is something for everyone to enjoy no matter what your age.”

As well as the Queen’s Cup, there will be a series of key races taking place throughout the day, including the Royal Mile Handicap, the Silver Arrow and Scotland’s fastest race, the Scottish Sprint Cup, which attracts top sprinters from across the country.

Prize money that will be awarded across the day will total £226,000 – the venue’s highest value offered this year. ITV Racing will cover the full sporting event.

Aisling added: “After the last race, revellers will be able to enjoy some music and dancing with the memorable ‘Funkwagen’ party van experience.

“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!”

Vendors at the event 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 and Bonnie Burrito’s Mexican cuisine.

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

Treble up for Musselburgh

Musselburgh Racecourse gallops ahead with three industry awards

Musselburgh Racecourse has strengthened its position as Scotland’s leading horse racing venue with three accolades from leading industry and visitor attraction organisations.

The East Lothian course was awarded Gold Standard status by the Racehorse Owners’ Association (ROA), one of only 12 UK courses to achieve the standard and ranked third behind York and sister course Chester.

Musselburgh was assessed as having an overall quality score of 89% and received 100% ratings in four categories including for cleanliness. The ROA said the Gold Standard was awarded to courses which provide an outstanding race day experience for owners and demonstrated a “truly exemplary performance”.

Sixty courses participated in the scheme scoring an average quality score of 80%. Musselburgh achieved an 89% rating with an owner’s feedback score of 4.4 out of five against an average score of 3.7%.

The Racecourse Association’s (RCA) Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme assesses the raceday experience from the perspective of customers, with each racecourse visited by a trained assessor from VisitScotland. The assessments analyse all touchpoints of the customer experience including pre-raceday information, the on-course experience and post-raceday communications.

Musselburgh was awarded an RCA Excellence Accolade for its Staff Customer Service and also retained its five star visitor attraction status, meaning it is considered an “exceptional” venue by VisitScotland.

The RCA said 2022 had been a particularly challenging year for sport and leisure venues, and the retention of the prestigious five star rating demonstrated the ongoing investment in Scotland into the raceday experience.

Paul Swain, the RCA’s Raceday Experience & Communications Manager, said: “The scheme demonstrates the RCA and its members’ ongoing commitment to reviewing and enhancing the raceday experience.

“It has been a challenging year for racecourses with inflation, soaring energy bills and the wider cost of living crisis. This, along with the difficulties of securing staff, has meant that racecourses have had to adapt and innovate to continue to offer the experiences our racegoers are accustomed to.”

VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance Manager, Angie Fowler, said: “We congratulate the Scottish racecourses in retaining their excellent quality visitor attraction ratings, with three of them retaining our top accolade. 

“A commitment to quality is clearly demonstrated across these racecourses and in particular, their dedication to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors is helping to inspire other attractions across Scotland. 

“Their determination to maintain and improve standards is about much more than just a star rating, it is about providing a visitor experience consistent in standards across all areas. Quality and value-for-money are important to consumers, especially during challenging economic times, and delivering experiences that meet and exceed visitor expectations is crucial in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination.”

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “It is important and useful to be able to measure our performance and the race day experience we offer across multiple metrics and I am delighted that Musselburgh continues to be one of the best performing and value for money sports and visitor attractions in the UK.

“The bar is set high but we are always striving to find new or improved ways of making sure everyone who visits Musselburgh, be that regular racegoers and owners or casual visitor, leaves feeling they have enjoyed the day and will want to return.

“Maintaining these high standards is only possible because of the energy and commitment of our permanent and race day staff who work with key partners to ensure consistent quality across all our operations and these awards are recognition of their efforts.”