Racegoers urged get on the front foot or risk missing out
Musselburgh Racecourse is urging First Footers to get on the front foot if they want to secure their place at one of the most exciting days on the Scottish horse racing calendar.
The East Lothian racecourse recently named Champion Racecourse by its racing industry peers, reports that tickets are selling fast for its Tote New Year’s Day Meeting, signposting another potential 6,000 sell-out event.
The East Lothian track is pulling out the stops to make 1 January a day to remember with a Golden Ticket hunt featuring 24 top prizes, a Best Dressed Dog contest, and on the turf six thrilling jumps races with prize money of over £100,000.
Famous for its fashionable atmosphere, this event also invites New Year Day revellers to dress to impress and participate in the inaugural Style Awards hosted in partnership with Scottish fashion boutique, Tiger Lily Boutique.
Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We’re making this year’s event the biggest we’ve put on yet, with a host of thrilling competitions that could see some people win big.
“We’re excited about all of the fun aspects of the day, such as our best-dressed dog contest. I’m looking forward to seeing all the imaginative and wonderful outfits that our guests come up with for their furry friends.
“The Festive Luxe Domes have made a return this year which are always a hit, adding an extra layer of festive fun for racegoers who are lucky enough to bag one.
“I know everyone is just as excited as we are to see everyone well-dressed and having the time of their lives as they kick off 2024 with us.”
The New Year’s Day fixture is one of the most prestigious in Musselburgh’s jumps calendar, attracting top horses, jockeys, and trainers alike, and boasting huge prize money to match.
At £40,000, the most valuable race on the card is the ‘Auld Reekie’ Handicap Chase.
Last year’s winner was Minella Drama, ridden by champion jockey Brian Hughes and trained by Donald McCain.
The £30,000 Hair of The Dog Handicap Hurdle, also over a similar distance, was recently won by Benson, trained by Sandy Thomson, ridden by Ryan Mania, and owned by Dundee United director Jimmy Fyffe.
“First Footer” bus services – which have to be booked in advance – will ferry racegoers to and from the racecourse leaving from Penicuik, Dalkeith, Galashiels, Gorebridge, Dunbar, Haddington, and Edinburgh, ensuring easy transport to and from the East Lothian venue.
Additionally, attendees can experience the vibrant Highland Fling Marquee, with Scotland’s renowned ceilidh band, ‘Kilter’, delivering an electrifying performance to keep the energy high throughout the day.
Aisling added: “This year our Golden Ticket hunt will return, and we’ll be offering 24 hidden prizes around the venue. Those who come down to the racecourse will have the chance to win some fantastic prizes.
“We’ve been blown away by the response to the event so far and I’d urge anyone who is considering attending to grab tickets while you can and bring your family and friends too as it will be a fantastic day.”
Racegoers can enjoy a selection of Scotland’s finest street food, including offerings from Bonnie Burrito, Cheese on Coast, and special boozy hot chocolates.
Adult tickets are priced at £40 when booked online in advance, and entry is free for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult. Gates open at 10.30 am, the first race is at 12.35 pm and the last race at 3.30 pm (subject to change) more information is available here: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures
Those planning on attending the Tote New Year’s Day Meeting are encouraged to book their tickets quickly to avoid disappointment. To get a £5 discount per person, bookings must be made before midnight on December 31st.
Musselburgh hosts 25 race days annually and its ‘Sensational 6’ key race days include New Year’s Day, the bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend, Easter Saturday, The Edinburgh Cup, Ladies Day, and The Summer Finale weekend.
For further information on New Year’s Day and to book tickets now, visit: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/tickets/new-years-day-1-1-24
