Sun Shines on Epsom Open Day
Suncream and ice-lollies were in demand at yesterday’s Epsom Open Day which saw a bumper crowd enjoy a morning visiting trainer’s yards and an afternoon family raceday at Epsom Downs Racecourse on a spectacularly sunny August Bank Holiday.
The event had a fantastic turnout and it was a pleasure to welcome so many people to the event for the first time as well as seeing visitors for whom the annual event is a regular must-go in the calendar.
The day started with a gallops demonstration with stable staff riding up Epsom’s fibresand gallop whilst trainers were interviewed by Rishi Persad in front of the assembled crowd. This gave attendees the chance to ask trainers questions about how racehorses are trained and cared for as well as about racing plans for the horses on show.
After this, the buses rolled into action to take visitors around the eight yards which were kindly opening their doors to the public for the day. Fantastic hospitality was shown to all visitors at each of the eight yards. Thanks must go to the trainers; Michael Attwater, Jim Boyle, Simon Dow, Roger Ingram, Laura Mongan, Mark Pattinson, Pat Phelan and Adam West.
After the yards closed it was quickly onwards to Epsom Downs Racecourse where a very important race was taking place – the ‘Hop ’til You Drop‘ spacehopper derby! This event saw seven teams bouncing their way along the final furlong of Epsom’s hallowed turfand an emphatic victory for Pat Phelan’s team. Second place went to Laura Mongan’s team and third to Adam West’s team.
Racing Welfare would like to thank everybody who made this event possible, our sponsors The Jockey Club, everyone who purchased tickets and all of the generous racegoers who gave to the exit bucket collection. All money raised will be used by Racing Welfare to support racing staff in the Epsom area.