After a hectic summer schedule, October 13th will see the season finale for the year at Brighton Racecourse, where there will not be another race until next April. Of course, there’s plenty in between for racing fans to enjoy, but visiting the track can be a great experience.
Whilst there will be no racing at Brighton between now and April, there will be some big races to enjoy. The Christmas period is notoriously busy, with the Welsh National at Chepstow a particular standout, where Mountainous will be seeking a third victory.
However, it’s 2017 where the major races really begin, with the Cheltenham festival in March. The Queen Mother Champion Chase at the start of the meeting promises to be an exciting clash, with Douvan facing off against Sprinter Sacre – weather dependant of course. Despite Sprinter Sacre winning this race this year, Douvan is the even priced favourite with Coral, which is just part of their extensive horse racing odds.
As well as that, the Gold Cup is a highlight of the festival, coming on the final day, and this year we saw favourite Don Cossack take the prize, after rival Cue Card had dramatically fell.
Yet, whilst Cheltenham is arguably the pinnacle of UK racing, you can find just as much excitement at the local meetings – like Brighton. With seven races on the flat course, it should be a great ending to the year.
Given the course and the unreliable weather, the Brighton track hosts 21 fixtures between April to October but it does attract quality. Plus, for fans, the setting of the course makes for an excellent day out, and is something that ought to be considered in 2017.
Set high on the Sussex Downs, you will get stunning views of the city, along with the English Channel, creating some memorable images that are hard to replicate elsewhere at other meetings, which gives this course it’s unique appeal. When the meetings pick up again next year, a date for the diary has to be Brighton’s very own Ladies Day, where thousands dressed to impress and enjoyed the occasion.
Given the nature of racing, there is always something to look forward too, and now is no different. With a busy Christmas period, 2017 opens up for some major occasions, including Cheltenham, and see the return of flat racing at Brighton. So, check it out, and enjoy!