FINAL CALL FOR ENTRIES TO STABLE STAFF RACES DURING RACING STAFF WEEK 2025
Racing Welfare is making a final call for entries to a series of Stable Staff Races which will take place at racecourses across the UK as part of celebrations to mark Racing Staff Week 2025.
Generously sponsored by Betfair, Racing Staff Week takes place between Saturday 21st to Friday 27th June this year, which brings the racing industry and its followers together to celebrate racing staff, and showcase their passion, skills and dedication across the breadth of the industry, without which, the sport would not be possible.
A unique chance for stable staff to ride under rules, these races offer participants the opportunity to experience the thrill of competitive racing on the track – while raising vital funds for Racing Welfare – the charity dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of racing’s people.
The Stable Staff Races aim to shine a spotlight on racing’s workforce, promote awareness of Racing Welfare’s services, and provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for stable staff, who are often the unsung heroes of the sport, to take centre stage in front of racing crowds.
Stable Staff Races are taking place in the following locations: Ayr – Saturday 21st June – over a distance of 6f – https://racingwelfare.co.uk/events-archive/stable-staff-race-ayr/
Newbury – Tuesday 24th June – over a distance of 1m – https://racingwelfare.co.uk/events-archive/stable-staff-race-newbury/
Newton Abbot – Tuesday 24th June – over a distance of 7f – https://racingwelfare.co.uk/events-archive/stable-staff-race-newton-abbot/
Nottingham – Thursday 26th June – over a distance of 6f – https://racingwelfare.co.uk/events-archive/stable-staff-race-nottingham/
Among the entries already received is Ciera McKeown, who won the Newbury race in 2023 aboard her own Liberated Lad for trainer Ben Brookhouse and will be looking to take the spoils again. Speaking of her experience, she said: “It was amazing. I didn’t think I’d win but I had high hopes that he’d run well. It was surreal coming round at the 3f and I thought at least someone’s going to come past me here and they didn’t! I’m so happy with him. I might consider the jockey thing now!
“It’s such a great opportunity, you don’t get to ride on a racetrack every day. You ride them at home but it’s not the same as riding on a track. It gives you an opportunity to see what it’s like and what jockeys go through.”
Chloe Martin, Racing Welfare’s Head of Community Engagement, said: “The stable staff races are a brilliant opportunity for those who work so hard behind the scenes to get their moment to shine. They’re an unforgettable experience for those taking part and we would urge any stable staff who have ever dreamt of riding in a race to get their entries in as soon as possible to avoid missing out.”
Participants will not only enjoy the thrill of race riding but will also play a crucial role in raising funds that enable Racing Welfare to deliver vital support services to the industry’s workforce. From mental health support to housing and financial advice, Racing Welfare exists to ensure that every person in racing feels supported and can thrive.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something truly special – entries close on 7th May. To apply, and for full details, including eligibility criteria, please visit: https://racingwelfare.co.uk/rsw/
