Meet the Showcase Finalists: Exceptional Raceday Delivery (≥8,000)

With this year’s RCA Showcase less than a month away it’s time to meet the Finalists. The Finalists, carefully selected by an expert, independent judging panel demonstrate best practice from British racecourses and will be in with the chance of being crowned category winners at the RCA Showcase Awards on Thursday 13th November at York Racecourse.

Today’s piece will look at the Exceptional Raceday Delivery (≥8,000) category.

Exceptional Raceday Delivery (≥8,000)

Ascot – Howden Christmas Family Raceday

Ho Ho Ho! It’s Christmas, but Ascot style, with over 18,000 in attendance to partake in the festive cheer.

Racegoers were treated to Grade One racing, carol singing, and even a visit from Mr and Mrs Claus. Stable staff and the racing media must have been exceptionally good in 2024, as all in attendance from these groups received a gift to start Christmas early.

Chester – Roman Day

With racing dating back to 1539 on the Roodee, even Chester’s longevity is a mere youngster compared to the Romans who founded the city.

Chester’s Roman Day brings together both elements of history for a wonderful family treat, with racing presented alongside re-enactment battles, educational workshops and, of course, roaming Romans.

Newbury – The Coral Gold Cup

Newbury’s standout jumps fixture was hosted with all the bells and whistles you’d expect of this calendar highlight.

Alongside the showpiece race, Newbury added a funfair, darts challenge and after-party to ensure the raceday experience lived up to the billing of the Coral Gold Cup.

Ripon – William Hill Great St Wilfrid – Charity Race Day

Ripon and William Hill’s relationship has spanned over 30 years, with both parties wanting to celebrate this landmark with a huge fundraising event.

Using Ripon’s flagship Great St Wilfrid fixture, the teams set the aspirational goals of reaching £20,000 in aid of the MND association, and an attendance of at least 10,000. The raceday smashed both targets, and left a fitting legacy for all involved.

York – “No Trouble Makin’” Summer Music Saturday

York’s heart skipped a beat when they acquired the Group 3 Criterion Stakes and a new summer raceday.

Combining the new raceday with a concert, York made every effort to seamlessly make this raceday a part of the Knavesmire season for racegoers new and old. The result? 28,500 delighted racegoers and a return to York for Olly Murs. No Trouble Makin’!