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Tag: Sport
Easter at Musselburgh a strong favourite with Virgin Bet
VIRGIN BET has been announced as the headline Easter Saturday Raceday sponsor at Musselburgh Racecourse – ahead of one of the biggest days of racing in the Scottish calendar.
Featuring the £100,000 Queen’s Cup and The Scottish Sprint Cup – regarded as Scotland’s fastest race – The Virgin Bet Easter Saturday Raceday will see some of the country’s top horses, trainers and jockeys converge on the East Lothian course on Saturday 30th March.
Bill Farnsworth, Racecourse Director with Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “In Virgin Bet we have a headline sponsor that matches our ambitions, to continue growing our Easter event and building its reputation as the pinnacle of horse racing in Scotland.
“We have a packed programme for avid racing fans. The £100,000 Virgin Bet Queen’s Cup, a Heritage Handicap staged over 1m 6f, is the feature race. With total prize money nudging £300,000, there is also a superb supporting card boasting contests such as the Virgin Bet Scottish Sprint Cup and Virgin Bet Silver Arrow, which are run over five-furlongs and seven-furlongs, respectively.
“Last year’s winner of the Queen’s Cup, Wise Eagle, went on to finish second in a Group 3 contest at Ascot while the 2022 hero Enemy was a close runner-up in a race in Saudi Arabia worth a whopping £1.2 million.
“The Scottish Sprint Cup attracts some of the fastest horses in the country, and twelve months ago, was won in blistering style by Silky Wilkie, who, just four weeks later, was just pipped by a short-head at Epsom on Derby Day. He was also second twice in Listed grade at Beverley and York.
“Musselburgh’s five-furlong track record was set in this race by 2018 winner Caspian Prince, who stopped the clock at 56.77sec, and meant he was travelling quicker than the cars on the adjacent road!
“Top jockey Hollie Doyle landed the 2019 renewal with Saheeq, who, like Caspian Prince, was trained by Mick Appleby. Last year’s Silver Arrow winner, Gweedore, was successful for the second year running, and his Galashiels trainer, Katie Scott, reports that she is preparing her stable star for the hat-trick!”
The high calibre of flat racing will be captured and broadcast across the UK by ITV Racing, with the racing programme starting at 1:30 and the final race getting underway at 5:20.
Ric Leask, Marketing Director at Virgin Bet, said: “We are thrilled to announce Virgin Bet as the headline sponsor for Easter Saturday Raceday at Musselburgh Racecourse.
“We are passionate about delivering an unparalleled sports betting experience, and there’s no better way to showcase this commitment than by supporting one of the biggest days of racing in the Scottish calendar.
“Musselburgh holds a special place in the hearts of racing enthusiasts, and we are excited to be a part of the excitement and tradition that the Easter Saturday Raceday brings.
“This sponsorship reflects our dedication to being a leading player in the horseracing world, and we’re delighted to continue to be deeply embedded within the highlight moments of the sport.”
Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development with Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Easter Saturday is one of our biggest annual events that has grown over the years, gaining the royal seal of approval along the way.
“Virgin Bet coming on board is helping us to be even more ambitious with our plans, so that we can put on the perfect holiday weekend event for all manner of racegoers.
“This includes us expanding the off-track entertainment and hospitality offering. We believe it will be our best easter raceday to date.”
With the top-quality racing matched by a wide-ranging food and drink offering, plus an after-racing party, the event promises to be one of the biggest social gatherings in the Easter social calendar.
The Virgin Bet Easter Saturday Raceday on 30th March 2024 will open doors at 11:30 am and the first race is off at 1:50 pm (subject to change).
Book your tickets before midnight on the 29th of March and save £5.00 per person with under 17s going free when accompanied by an adult, T&Cs apply.
For more information and to book tickets now for Easter Saturday, visit:
https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/easter-saturday-30-03-2024
Varsity American Football Game 2024
A highlight of the Scottish student sporting calendar, the Varsity American football game has been played annually since 2012 and returns to Meggetland Stadium.
The traditional Edinburgh Napier Knights American Football vs University of Edinburgh Mavericks rivalry returns, as both teams fight it out for the most spectacular trophy in UK American Football.
This years game will be held on a mid-week evening under the floodlights at Meggetland, on Wednesday 20th March, with a 7pm KO.
Entertainment includes a DJ, Edinburgh Rampant medieval Armour Combat Team and the Edinburgh University Brass Band. The Canalside Bar at Boroughmuir rugby club will be open throughout with hot food available.
Last years game produced fireworks during, on and off the field, with the Edinburgh Mavericks edging the game in a 14-6 victory.
Meggetland sports complex features a seated stand for watching the action.
Join us under the lights for the city’s biggest American Football fixture of the season!
Gates open from 6pm, with a 7pm kickoff.
Tickets are £5 adult, £3 students and Free Entry for U16’s and can be purchased in advance or on the gate.
Wooden Spoon Edinburgh and The Scottish Thistles Clan unite for fundraising lunch
Wooden Spoon Edinburgh and The Scottish Thistles Clan are joining forces for a special Women’s Six Nations Pre International Lunch at The Thistle Suite, Murrayfield Stadium on the 12th April, the day before the highly anticipated Scotland vs. England Women’s Six Nations rugby match.
The fundraising lunch aims to support Wooden Spoon Charity’s mission to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage and also to raise funds for The Scottish Thistles Clan that exists to mentor, provide assistance to, and encourage support for past and present Scotland Women internationalists.
Guests will have the opportunity to engage with esteemed speakers during a Q & A panel, featuring influential figures from the world of sport.
The panel includes:
Judy Murray: Renowned for her contributions to tennis and as the mother of tennis champions Andy and Jamie Murray, Judy Murray has also made her mark in supporting sports development.
Donna Kennedy: With an impressive record of 115 caps, Donna Kennedy stands as Scotland’s most-capped internationalist. Her experiences on and off the field make her a compelling speaker and role model for aspiring athletes.
Sue Day: As Chief Finance Officer for the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and a former England internationalist, Sue Day is a respected figure in women’s rugby
Lee Cockburn: Former rugby international, Lee Cockburn has been a vocal advocate for the development and promotion of women’s rugby.
The event serves as a prelude to the Scotland vs. England Women’s Six Nations match, creating an exciting atmosphere for rugby enthusiasts and supporters of Wooden Spoon and The Scottish Thistles clan.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Scottish Thistles Clan for this fundraising lunch,” said Brian Donald, Event organiser at Wooden Spoon.
“This event not only brings rugby enthusiasts together but also enables us to raise vital funds to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people facing adversity and to support the Scottish Thistles clan.”
Tickets cost £75 per person and includes a drinks reception and lunch. Wooden Spoon also promises an afternoon filled with inspiration and a unique insight into the journeys of our inspiring panellists.
For more information please contact Brian Donald on – 07770686366 or email edinburgh@woodenspoon.org.uk
Sir Andy Murray voted Scotland’s Greatest Sportsperson of 21st century
- The Scot’s 2013 Wimbledon triumph was also voted the greatest UK sporting moment of the century
- Take part in this quiz to test your knowledge of the UK’s 21st century sporting success
Scotland’s greatest sportsperson of the 21st century has been revealed – with tennis legend Sir Andy Murray coming out on top.
Sports fans from Scotland have had their say and the three-time Grand Slam champion won with 61 per cent of the vote.
Second place went to six-time Olympic champion, Sir Chris Hoy, while third spot went to seven-time snooker World Champion, Stephen Hendry.
Scotland’s men’s football captain, Andy Robertson picked up fourth, tied with long-distance runner Eilish McColgan.
They were followed by Winter Olympic champion Eve Muirhead, and Olympic silver medallist Laura Muir, who received the same number of votes.
Commissioned by CopyBet.com, the poll of Scottish adults who watch sport also identified the greatest UK sporting moment of the century – with Sir Andy Murray coming out on top again for his 2013 Wimbledon triumph, followed by Sir Chris Hoy’s triple gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
A spokesperson for the betting platform said: “Scotland has a proud sporting history and it’s always enjoyable to reflect on the moments and sportspeople we remember most fondly.
“As the study shows, Scotland have had lots of success this century, and with the Summer Olympics and European Championships on the horizon, 2024 will surely see more memorable sporting moments.”
78 per cent of Scottish sports fans believe the UK’s sporting successes boost the morale of the nation – with 62 per cent of the opinion that it’s in need of another sporting triumph or two.
Carried out through OnePoll, the study found 59 per cent of Scottish sports fans believe the current generation of UK sportspeople holds up to those from past eras, with the same number being optimistic about the UK’s sporting prospects for the decade ahead.
A spokesperson for the betting platform added: “Recent successes will surely inspire the next generation of athletes to match or better past achievements.
“The future is looking bright for Scotland – no doubt sports fans will be excited to see what happens next.”
TOP 10 – SCOTTISH SPORTSPEOPLE OF THE 21ST CENTURY
1. Sir Andy Murray
2. Sir Chris Hoy
3. Stephen Hendry MBE
4. Andy Robertson
5. Eilish McColgan
6. Laura Muir
7. Eve Muirhead OBE
8. Stuart Hogg MBE
9. Jamie Murray OBE
10. John Higgins MBE
TOP 5 – UK SPORTING MOMENTS OF THE 21ST CENTURY
- Sir Andy Murray winning Wimbledon in 2013
- Sir Chris Hoy’s triple gold at the 2008 Olympics in track cycling
- Leicester City winning the Premier League in 2015/16
- ‘The Miracle of Istanbul’ – Liverpool’s comeback from 3-0 down to win the Champions League against AC Milan
- Sir Mo Farah’s double gold at the 2012 Olympics – 5,000m and 10,000m
Linlithgow lad celebrates Local Legend tag by Specsavers as he rises through refereeing ranks
A LINLITHGOW referee has received the accolade of ‘Local Legend’ as part of Specsavers’ partnership with the Scottish FA.
With thousands of people giving up their time each week across the country to ensure their community can enjoy football, the Local Legends campaign aims to shine a light on the unsung heroes dedicated to grassroots football.
Cameron Stirling, from Linlithgow, has been recognised as a Local Legend for his dedication to refereeing and for promoting officiating to youngsters as a route for development within football.
At just 21, Cameron is a category three referee, balancing officiating Lowland League games with his studies at Edinburgh Napier University.
The business management and marketing student is also a Youth Referee Ambassador, starting out in refereeing at just 16, making the senior list at 17, and hopes to one day officiate a game in the Scottish Premiership.
Speaking upon receiving the award, Cameron said, ‘I’ve played football pretty much my whole life and just love the game.
‘It’s very nice to be recognised and I’m honoured to receive it, especially when the nomination came from my peers in the referees’ department.’
From Stranraer to Banks O’ Dee, Cameron has already travelled the length and breadth of the country as both a referee and a linesman.
His passion for the game comes from growing up playing football, but now hopes refereeing can provide him with a path to the top.
As part of his recognition, last November Cameron enjoyed a day out at Hampden Park to watch Scotland’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Norway in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match, courtesy of Specsavers and the Scottish FA.
Cameron also received a signed Scotland top from Steve Clarke’s men’s national squad as a part of their accolade.
Specsavers’ Arlene Stephenson, Scottish Divisional Chair, says: ‘Specsavers is proud of our long tradition in backing Scottish referees, but our current partnership sees us going further than ever, helping to raise awareness of grassroots football across the country.
‘Our Local Legends campaign is all about shining a spotlight on those away from the glamour of the top divisions, but who work just as hard to ensure Scotland’s communities benefit from the beautiful game.
‘From managing their local teams and making sure the pitch is in top shape for matchday, to referees making sure everyone’s game goes ahead or even just fervently following your club for decades – these unsung heroes embody what football is all about.
‘We are delighted to celebrate Cameron’s contribution to both football and his profession as a referee, particularly for one so young.
‘In our eyes, he truly is a Local Legend.’
Specsavers announced in 2021 that it renewed its’ sponsorship deal with football referees in Scotland, marking more than 20 years of support – one of the longest agreements of its kind in sport.
The deal has seen the partnership continue into 2024, not only helping with the training and development of referees, but also helping to raise awareness of para football and grassroots football in Scotland.
20,000 more young people to access new and renovated youth clubs – in England
Young people in England set to benefit from 140 new or refurbished youth centres thanks to latest funding round from the UK Government’s Youth Investment Fund of £90 million
- Nearly 20,000 more young people will have access to dance, drama and sport as part of the Government’s latest investment in youth services
- 140 more youth centres to be built or refurbished backed by over £90 million from the Youth Investment Fund
- Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer officially opens The Chichester Shed – the first new build youth centre funded by the Youth Investment Fund
Young people in villages, towns and cities across England are set to benefit from 140 new or refurbished youth centres thanks to the largest funding round to date from the Government’s Youth Investment Fund.
Totalling more than £90 million, funding announced today (3 February) will support nearly 20,000 more young people per year to access new state of the art facilities such as workshop spaces, sports halls, art rooms, recording studios and skateparks.
Activities ranging from dance, drama and music to sport, horticulture and employment skills development will be on offer, giving young people access to opportunities that broaden their horizons.
Today also marks a major milestone with the very first new build youth centre funded by the Youth Investment Fund opening its doors.
Located in a deprived area with high levels of antisocial behaviour, The Chichester Shed has used a grant of over £420,000 to build a brand new space to support more than 120 young people. The open access service will provide a space to relax and learn new skills, with activities including woodworking, yoga and skateboarding available.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said: “I want to see every young person have someone to talk to, something to do, and somewhere to go outside of the classroom, no matter where they are from, to help maximise their potential in life.
“This next round of funding from the Youth Investment Fund will help nearly 20,000 more young people achieve this goal.
“We have now committed to building or refurbishing over 220 projects in some of the country’s most underserved areas, creating more opportunities for young people to gain the skills needed to succeed in life and stopping them from falling through the cracks.”
The Youth Investment Fund has now allocated £250 million of its more than £300 million budget to services in areas of the country where need is high and provision is low.
It will engage young people most in need, including those that might have otherwise been at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour or falling out of education, training or employment.
This is the latest announcement that forms part of the Government’s ambition to make sure young people are supported with positive and engaging opportunities both in and outside of school hours.
Clare de Bathe, CEO of Chichester Community Development Trust said: “The Chichester Shed will provide an informal, dynamic and versatile space where young people can connect, learn and experience new activities.
“The space will be a haven for all ages and backgrounds to use throughout the school day and holidays, including intergenerational activities where boundaries can be broken down as well as adult education sessions and group workshops delivered.
“The funding has enabled the project ideas to be brought to a reality and we cannot wait to open the doors.”
Examples of other youth centres receiving grants in this funding round include:
- Bodies in Motion, Pendle – a combined grant of over £1.4 million will pay for the refurbishment of Orchid House Gym with new changing facilities and equipment, supporting 290 additional young people a week. The Garden Project will create a community-focused garden and greenhouse facility, engaging an additional 400 young people through therapeutic horticultural activities to promote a sense of wellbeing.
- Youth Options, Southampton – a new community café and training centre, backed by £1.2 million investment, will provide a safe haven for nearly 100 additional young people a week in a disadvantaged part of the city.The café will offer training in catering and hospitality, and will be targeted at those not in education, employment, and training, while the indoor space will be transformed to create new activity space and a counselling room.
- Positive Futures, Liverpool – The Positive Futures hub will be expanded to provide a sensory room, music rooms, art space, large sports hall and virtual reality spaces to support 250 additional young people a week.
- Tinside Cove and Lido, Plymouth – two listed buildings at the Tinside Lido will be renovated to provide space for nearly 300 more young people a week to benefit from new training and educational programmes, while the lido will be used for swimming, snorkelling, diving and life-saving classes.
- Weymouth West Air Scouts, Weymouth – The Scouts building will be refurbished with a new shower room, extended kitchen and three breakout rooms, doubling the building’s size and enabling them to run multiple activities at the same time. The project will support nearly 80 more young people a week.
Nick Temple, CEO of Social Investment Business said: “The Youth Investment Fund is transforming the youth service landscape right across the country, enabling youth centres of all shapes and sizes to enhance their services and reach more young people.
I”t’s very exciting to see the first Youth Investment Fund newbuild open its doors to Chichester’s young people today. Before securing the funding, these young people had nowhere safe to go, and nothing to do after school.
“Young people now have a brand-new youth centre, inspired by their ideas and needs, giving them every opportunity to thrive and discover their passions. The Youth Investment Fund is truly unlocking potential and creating a legacy for future generations of young people in communities like this across the country.”
Denise Hatton, Chair of Back Youth Alliance said: “We are delighted that nearly 20,000 young people will be able to access new and refurbished youth clubs through the latest instalment of the National Youth Guarantee.
“With mental health, loneliness and anti-social behaviour all on the rise, now more than ever young people need a safe space to go, a trusted adult to speak to and access to positive activities in their communities all year round.
Ruth Marvel, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), said: “This multi million-pound investment is so much more than skateparks, sports halls and art rooms. It’s an investment in the resilience, confidence and independence of young people, which thanks to the on-going impact of a pandemic and cost of living crisis, has never been more needed.
“We at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award know first-hand that when you invest in young people, there is no limit to what they can achieve. The government’s National Youth Guarantee has brought the DofE to thousands of young people in England for the first time, breaking down barriers and providing life-shaping activities and volunteering opportunities.”
Today’s announcement forms the latest part of the Government’s ‘National Youth Guarantee’, that will ensure every young person aged 11-18 in England has access to regular clubs and activities, adventures away from home, and volunteering opportunities by 2025, backed by an investment of over £500 million.
The National Youth Guarantee will provide greater access to activities such as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and the National Citizen Service, and uniformed youth groups such as Scouts, Girlguiding, and Cadets.
To further support giving young people the best start in life, in September 2023 the Government announced the opening of the second phase of the £19 million Million Hours Fund, designed to create more than one million additional hours of youth centre provision in areas with high numbers of antisocial behaviour incidents.
Some good news for youth work facilities south of the border then, but here in North Edinburgh the future for children and families provision is looking far from positive. MORE ON THAT NEXT WEEK …
Scottish parents celebrate wider access to sport for kids
- Over two fifths (41%) of Scottish parents think children have a wider choice of sports and facilities in the local community spaces and at school than they did as children.
- Almost one in ten (9%) of women in Scotland surveyed have never played rugby but would like to give it a go
- As Founding Partner of the first women’s Lions team, Royal London is championing women’s rugby by helping to level the playing field for future generations.
41% of Scottish parents of school aged children say that children have a wider choice of sports options and facilities both at school and in the local community than they did. A similar number (42%) say that children can play any sport they want to, and 37% of parents thought children today have more access to sporting role models of all genders and sports than when they were younger.
The research, from Royal London, follows the announcement of the first ever Lions Women’s tour, set to take place in 2027 in New Zealand. As Founding Partner, Royal London is committed to championing and supporting women’s rugby, and to making a difference by helping to level the playing field for this and future generations.
Only 5% of women surveyed in Scotland aged 55 plus were offered the chance to play rugby at school versus 56% of men of the same age. For younger people, the disparity lesses, with 24% of women aged 18-34 in Scotland given the same opportunity at school, compared to 37% of men in the same age range.
The decreasing gender sports gap will be welcome news for many with 9% of women who haven’t played rugby stating they would like to try.
Shaunagh Brown, rugby player and ambassador for Royal London, said: “In recent years there has been a significant increase in the visibility of women in sport, across the board.
“Undoubtedly, we still have a lot of work to do but the Lions Women’s tour is a great example of the progress being made. Increased accessibility at grassroots level, including a practical overhaul of facilities at grounds, coupled with visible role models for women and girls to look up to will help with this.
“Royal London’s meaningful commitment to coach and player pathways and grassroots funding is a significant boost to increasing access and interest in the sport, helping ensure a more diverse, bigger player and coach pool ahead of 2027.
Susie Logan, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Royal London, said: “It’s positive to see access to traditionally ‘male’ sports improving for young girls. Access to rugby is improving for girls but there is more work to be done. It’s clear that there are people who would have liked the opportunity to play and didn’t get the chance.
“This is why we’re so proud to be a founding partner of the first ever Lions Women’s rugby team and investing into the rugby programmes that will turn the dial even further at a grassroots level across the UK and Ireland.
“We are aiming to encourage more girls to participate in rugby by presenting more opportunities for them to get involved in a sport that they might not otherwise have considered.”
The partnership will also see Royal London invest in player development in each of The British & Irish Lions constituent Unions through the delivery of a special Pathways Funding grant.
The grants will support the women’s player and coach pathways in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and England, to help Unions develop more players and coaches capable of being selected for the inaugural Lions Women’s Tour.
In addition, Royal London will also be investing in women’s and girls’ grassroots rugby across the UK and Ireland in the run-up to the Tour.
VIDEO: https://www.royallondon.com/about-us/our-purpose/partnerships/lions-womens-founding-partner/.
Fans heading to Euro 2024 in Germany warned of new travel rules
As Euro 2024 approaches, excitement is building among UK football fans planning to visit Germany for the tournament. However, post-Brexit travel rules and potential additional costs are crucial considerations for UK travellers.
Travel experts from Football Ticket Pad, delve into the key aspects UK fans need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Passport Validity and Visas
Since Brexit, UK passports must meet specific criteria for travel within the Schengen Area, including Germany:
Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of return.
Issue Date: Passports older than 10 years, even with validity remaining, might not be accepted.
For stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period, UK citizens do not require visas for tourism, including attending sports events. However, keep an eye on any changes in visa policy as the event draws closer.
ETIAS Requirement (Expected from 2024)
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to be operational by 2024. UK citizens may need to apply for this pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The process involves a small fee and is completed online.
Health and Travel Insurance
With the UK no longer part of the EU, European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) issued in the UK are not valid. It’s vital to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage. Failure to have appropriate insurance might result in significant costs if medical care is needed.
Roaming Charges and Connectivity
Since Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming within the EU no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your provider for specific roaming policies and consider purchasing a local SIM card in Germany for cost-effective data and calls.
Driving in Germany
If you plan to drive:
International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on the type of UK licence you have, you may need an IDP.
Vehicle Insurance: Ensure your vehicle insurance covers travel in Germany.
Emission Stickers: Some German cities require an emissions sticker to drive in certain areas.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Laws
Understanding local customs and laws can help avoid unintentional disrespect or fines:
Recycling Laws: Germany has strict recycling laws. Improper disposal of waste can result in fines.
Public Behaviour: Disorderly behaviour, especially in public spaces, is frowned upon and can attract penalties.
Managing Costs and Budgeting
Currency Exchange: Remember, Germany uses the Euro. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider using travel cards to manage currency exchange fees.
Accommodation and Travel: Book NOW, to secure better rates. Consider alternative accommodations like hostels or Airbnb.
Final Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
Emergency Numbers: Familiarise yourself with local emergency contacts. In Germany, 112 is the emergency number.
Language: While many Germans speak English, learning basic German phrases can enhance your experience.
Event Tickets and Local Transport: Ensure your event tickets are booked in advance and research local transport options.
James O’Leary, from Football Ticket Pad says: “While the post-Brexit era has brought changes to travelling from the UK to EU countries like Germany, with adequate preparation and awareness of the new rules and potential costs, UK fans can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience at Euro 2024.
“Remember, the key to a smooth trip lies in planning ahead and staying informed!”
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