Are you looking to bring in 2017 in style? Well, there’s no better place to be than Musselburgh Racecourse which holds its New Year’s Day meeting on Sunday.
The races at Musselburgh is always a great day out and the first day of 2017 will prove no exception with top quality jump racing as well as one of the most historic athletic events in the world – the famous New Year’s Day sprint.
The raceday has proved a huge hit, with hospitality tickets selling out three months ago.
Leading trainers Dan Skelton, Venetia Williams and Charlie Longsdon – who two weeks ago, had a Musselburgh winner with The Queen’s Forth Bridge – are all represented at the East Lothian course.
Following on from last year’s strong numbers, Musselburgh Racecourse marketing manager, Aisling Johnston, is urging racegoers to get in quick and avoid disappointment.
She said: “Last year we saw the biggest ever New Year crowd at what is becoming a real tradition for people in and around Edinburgh.
“This year is already breaking our records – and at the current rate of sales we are on track to completely sell out on the day itself.
“We can’t wait for another fantastic day of racing to kick off 2017 with celebrations and entertainment.”
Thanks to the outstanding demand, the Musselburgh Racecourse’s First Foot double decker bus – which transports patrons from Edinburgh City Centre and Galashiels to Musselburgh Racecourse and return – will be upgraded to a fleet serving.
Aisling added: “The First Foot bus has been a real hit and we’re glad to be giving anyone celebrating the new year the chance to fully let their hair down without the need to worry about travel plans.
“It also means revellers can fully enjoy Hogmanay celebrations, knowing that transport is provided, rounding off an incredible New Year celebration weekend.”
The Racing UK New Year Sprint, which has a prize fund of £4000 is now in its 148th year – making it one of the most historic sporting events in the world.
Last year’s sprint saw its first ever female winner. The 110m race is the most enduring open athletics event in the UK and has been staged in Scotland annually since 1870.
In addition to admission tickets those heading along to the event have the option to pick up packages ahead of time to ensure they enjoy the best hospitality on offer. Racegoers can opt for a fish and chip package that complements the bracing January conditions or add a splash of sparkle with the ‘Pommery Pop’ package keeping the Hogmanay celebrations going.
The meeting is also notable for the return of racing to ITV. The commercial broadcaster is showing horse racing for the first time in 27 years and the showing of the two featured races on national television brings added kudos to the East Lothian course.
This meeting always has a cracking atmosphere and with the absence of any football in Edinburgh on New Year’s Day, has now taken on the mantle of providing top class sporting entertainment for the capital to see in a new year.
The weather forecast for Sunday is predominately dry but there are plenty of heated bar marquees to enjoy or the restaurant and café.
So, there’s really no excuse to miss this wonderful sporting occasion.
The event will take place on Sunday, January 1st. Doors open at 11am, with the first race under starter’s orders at 12.30pm and the final event of the afternoon starting at 3.25pm.
For more information and to book now to secure a ticket costing £25 click here
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