Ride into the winners’ enclosure at Cheltenham’s open day

Racing fans could experience the thrill of riding into the prestigious Cheltenham racecourse winners’ enclosure this weekend — as part of the Gloucestershire track’s first pre-season open day.

The racecourse is opening its gates to the public this Sunday (4 October).

And if you weigh less than 12 stone then you could ride into the winners’ enclosure too — aboard of some of the horses from the Costwold Branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association.

Grand National winner Bindaree and Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Master Oats will be parading on the day and champion National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls will be signing copies of his new autiobiograpy — Lucky Break.

There will also be behind-the-scenes access to the weighing room and saddling areas and the first 20 people to arrive will receive a free ticket for the racecourse’s first meeting of the season — The Showcase (16-17 October).

Cheltenham’s managing director, Edward Gillespie said: “We are always keen to try new initiatives, and we thought it was a good idea this year to give those who might want to try horseracing the chance to get a flavour of what will be happening here over the next seven months.

“In addition, I’m sure that there will also be plenty of existing racegoers who will use this season preview day to take a closer look at areas that would normally be off-limits.”

Gates are open between 12pm – 4pm and entry is free.

There is no racing on the day.

Visit: www.cheltenham.co.uk for more information.

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