Klein delighted as Warwick Racecourse attendance soars

DECEMBER sees Warwick’s final two meetings of 2016 with the Eventmasters Christmas Raceday taking place next Thursday, followed by the popular New Year’s Eve fixture which always attracts a large crowd, writes David Hucker.

For general manager Andre Klein, Thursday’s fixture marks a year at the helm at the Jockey Club Racecourses owned track after returning to the UK from New Zealand to take over from Huw Williams who moved to Wincanton.

Looking back on the year, Klein said: “The first year in the job has gone extremely quickly, and I’m delighted by what the team has achieved during this time.”

“Attendances are up by 21 per cent, which is no mean feat, and we’ve also seen a significant increase in hospitality bookings.”

“The challenge now is to build on this progress, starting with the Christmas Raceday.”

With the meeting at Carlisle last Sunday abandoned due to frost and even an all-weather fixture at Southwell lost to waterlogging a few days earlier, officials will be hoping that the weather stays kind ahead of Thursday when the gates will open at 10.20am.

The racing action gets underway two hours later with the eventmasters.co.uk Juvenile Hurdle over the minimum trip of two miles, with the highlight of the seven-race card being the third, the Lady Godiva Mares´ Novices´ Chase (Listed Race) over two and a half miles.

The feature race is one of the four new Listed chases for mares announced by the British Horseracing Authority during the summer to complement the three races already run at Carlisle, Doncaster and Huntingdon,

Along with the racing, there is entertainment including a brass band and magician, while a Christmas-themed best dressed competition is being held, with the winner to receive a membership for the rest of the 2016/17 season. Free mince pies and mulled wine will also be served up to early arrivals at the gates.

“The fixture provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the racing and really get into the Christmas spirit” added Klein.

“It is a great opportunity to do something different for this year’s Christmas party and make sure your staff and colleagues have a party to remember this year. It should be a great occasion.”

Private boxes have already all sold-out, but a wide range of packages are available for parties and groups.

The Good Going Marquee package includes a complimentary glass of real ale, winter Pimms, bubbles or cider – alongside a three course feast including a starter, buffet main course and wide selection of deserts, for £66 per person.

For more ticket information or party packages call 01926 405 560 or go to www.warwickracecourse.co.uk.