More than £27,000 raised at ARC Middleham Open Day

More than 3,200 people headed out into the sunshine on Good Friday to explore Middleham’s historic racing yards.

The ARC Middleham Open Day saw six trainers open their yards to the crowds during the morning, with guests then enjoying activities such as a Retraining of Racehorses display and the Aiskew Equine & Pet Supplies Dog Show on the Low Moor during the afternoon. The highly competitive inter-yard challenge also proved a highlight during the afternoon, with staff from Jedd O’Keeffe’s stable being crowned overall champions after three fiercely contested heats including a relay, bale push and tug of war.

One visitor commented on social media: “A brilliant day out, and the great weather helped. Well organised and good to see the fabulous stables and the horses, of course. My little puppy also won the Waggiest Tail first prize in the dog show!”

This year’s event raised over £27,000 for Racing Welfare, funds that will go towards providing vital support for people working in and retired from the horseracing industry.

Racing Welfare’s Head of Fundraising, Ryan Judson, said: “We are thrilled with the success of this year’s Middleham Open Day. Thank you to all the trainers and racing staff that supported the event this year, without them the open day simply would not happen. Thanks also to our event management team, our volunteers, Arena Racing Company for their headline sponsorship and all the other sponsors, supporters and local businesses that contributed to such a brilliant day.

“The funds raised by this event will help our charity support the dedicated workforce that keep our sport functioning on a day-to-day basis.”