With three exciting National Hunt fixtures, on Tuesday 17 December, Saturday 28 December and New Year’s Day, the Christmas period is a busy time at Catterick Races.
The festivities begin with Christmas at Catterick on Tuesday 17 December, a popular event for Christmas parties and celebrations before the holidays kick in. The Christmas lights go up at the course and racegoers can get into the festive spirit with Christmas Carols ahead of racing, sung by Le Cateau School Choir.
Emma Binnian, Sales & Marketing Manager said: “We’re thrilled to have Le Cateau School Choir joining us again this year! Christmas at Catterick marks the start of our festive race days and having the choir singing as racegoers arrive creates a joyous atmosphere.”
The first of seven races on the 17 December gets underway at 12.20pm, with the gates opening to the public two hours prior to that. The final race on the card will take place at 3.20pm.
Those searching for some last-minute Christmas gifts will be pleased to note that the Injured Jockeys Fund will be at the course on the day selling a selection of gifts, perfect for racing enthusiasts!
Next up on the festive agenda is the Go Racing in Yorkshire Winter Festival on December 28th. This year, the ever-popular family fixture falls on a Saturday giving racegoers the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air post-Christmas before heading into the New Year.
Complimentary mulled wine and mince pies will be served on arrival at the main entrance, while stocks last, so those looking to enjoy a glass of mulled wine by the fire will want to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
During the afternoon, there will also be a chance for racegoers to win a sponsorship experience. Two lucky winners will be given the opportunity to be at the heart of the days action, see the horses up close in the Parade Ring and choose the Best Turned Out horse ahead of the race, as well as present the prize and celebrate with winning connections after the race.
The racing action on 28 December gets underway at 12.10pm with the Millbry Hill Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Steeple Chase, while the last race on the card is scheduled for 3.05pm.
Finally, the festive events culminate with racing on New Year’s Day as the North Yorkshire course hosts the first fixture of the 2020 Yorkshire Racing calendar.
As with all Catterick’s fixtures, accompanied under 18’s are admitted free of charge and the free shuttle bus will leave Richmond Market Place approximately 1 hour prior to the first race to bring racegoers to the course.
Tickets will be available to purchase at the gates on the day, while advanced and group booking discounts are available here.