Change in weather will aid recovery
Oct 8 2010 by James Armstrong
AFTER recent precipitation left Newcastle Racecourse in a somewhat soggy condition, Indian summer weather this weekend is just what’s called for and will leave Gosforth Park looking particularly verdant ahead of our Family Countryside Raceday next Sunday, October 17.
On Tuesday, we’ll also be warming up for the weekend with an afternoon’s action, first race 2pm.
Newcastle has seen a successful return to Sunday racing recently after many years absence and it’s proving highly popular with the punters and particularly families.
For our Countryside event, held in conjunction with the Countryside Alliance, there will be a host of entertainments taking place off the track with falconry displays featuring Golden Eagles, terrier racing, sheepdogs, a charity Huntsman’s race at 12.30pm prior to the main card, and much more.
The event is important for us and is an example of the Racing for Change initiatives we are implementing in order to open up the great sport of horseracing to more diverse audiences and help widen its appeal.
Newcastle has developed a reputation in recent years for being more than just a racecourse and we’re proud to be able to offer race goers a cracking day out.
And for those looking for an explosive evening’s entertainment, our Spooky Firework Spectacular on Saturday, October 30 is now selling out frighteningly fast with Tyneside favourite little Joe Mcelderry now on the card.
Away from Newcastle my Champion Jockey punt was given a boost yesterday by Richard Hughes’ failed appeal against a six-day ban. That gives my pick Paul Hanagan, currently nine wins ahead, a bit of breathing space before the season concludes on November 6.
However, strange things happen in sport – Hughes cut Hanagan’s lead with a winner each at Newbury and Wolverhampton yesterday for a start – and like our Spooky Spectacular the contest could yet see me hiding behind the sofa!
For more information or to book tickets call Newcastle Racecourse on 0191 236 2020 or visit www.newcastle-racecourse.co.uk
:: James Armstrong is clerk of the course at Gosforth Park
