Horse Racing; | achandler2015 Racing Flat; Lincoln: family , Horse Racing; DONCASTER Racecourse is getting ready to start the flat season in style with the prestigious Betway Lincoln weekend. The famous fixture traditionally marks the start of Britain’s flat season and has long been a highlight of the Town Moor racing calendar, attracting thousands of race-goers each year looking to enjoy a top class sporting and social occasion. The Betway Lincoln, a famous Heritage Handicap over a straight mile, takes pride of place on Saturday 02 April at 3.45pm, with the first race scheduled for 2pm. Seven races will take place across the opening day, with the final race getting started at 5:30pm. Racegoers will also be able to stay behind to enjoy some evening musical entertainment from top impersonator, Elvis2 . The race was originally run at Lincoln Racecourse and the venue introduced the Lincoln Spring Handicap at a new fixture in March 1853. The first two runnings were over 1½ miles, and it was shortened to a mile in 1855. The summer race ended when the meeting was temporarily discontinued in the 1850s.

The spring version was renamed the Lincolnshire Handicap in 1860. The race continued to be held at Lincoln until 1964. It was transferred to Doncaster in 1965, following the closure of its former venue and from this point, it was known as the Lincoln Handicap. On the second day of the Lincoln weekend, (Sunday 03 April), families will also be able to enjoy a spring day out as part of the racecourse’s first family themed event of the year at the Easter Family Fun Day. Admission is free for children and there will be entertainment for all the family including fairground rides, a colouring competition, kids disco, Doncaster’s favourite Mr Dan and much more. Kieran Gallagher, executive director at Doncaster Racecourse, said: “The Lincoln weekend is always a highlight of the racing calendar as it kick starts the flat season in scintillating style. “It is set to be a really popular weekend at the racecourse for both parents and children alike and aside from lots of off the course activity, we have a packed schedule of races lined up which are sure to entertain the parents.

I would urge people to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.” Tickets to the Betway Lincoln and Easter Family Fun Day start at £8.50 per person. achandler2015 Racing Horse Racing; Now in it’s 4th year, the OLBG Mares’ Road to Cheltenham 2016 kicked off at Wetherby’s annual bet365 Charlie Hall meeting on 31st October 2015. Giving mares and fillies a platform to showcase their talents, the OLBG Mares’ Road has been building in momentum since 2012 and culminates each year in the Grade 1 OLBG Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival. “The aim of OLBG’s sponsorship from the beginning was to help increase the quality and value of mares in National Hunt racing. We’ve now taken this further and developed a respected series solely for mares and fillies,” said Stefanie Reeve, Sponsorship Manager of OLBG.

“The OLBG Mares’ Road to Cheltenham is the result of investment and hard work from OLBG and many parties, including racecourses, trainers and of course the mares themselves.” OLBG.com Mares Hurdle, Wetherby, Saturday 31st October 2015 – 2 mile Listed hurdle OLBG.com Mares Hurdle, Kempton, Monday 23rd November 2015 – 3 mile 1/2 furlong Listed Hurdle OLBG.com Mares Hurdle, Ascot, Saturday 16th January 2016 – 3 mile Grade 2 Hurdle OLBG.com Mares Hurdle, Doncaster , Saturday 23rd January 2016 – 2 mile Grade 2 Hurdle OLBG.com Mares Hurdle, Warwick, Saturday 13th February 2016 – 2 miles 3 furlongs Listed Hurdle, OLBG Mares Hurdle (Registered as the David Nicholson Mares Hurdle), Cheltenham, Tuesday 15th March 2016 – 2

 mile 4 furlong Grade 1 Hurdle OLBG.com – Let’s Beat the Bookies OLBG is the place to find horse racing tips as well as tips for a wide variety of other sports.

Download their Sports Betting Tips App to get 100% free access to all of these tips on the go to help you Beat the Bookies. Share this: achandler2015 Racing Horse Racing; The 2015 British flat racing season will climax next month with the Betfred November Handicap at Doncaster Racecourse. Argus has been chalked up as the 6/1 favourite for the Betfred November Handicap by the sponsors after 40 horses were entered for the final major handicap of the Flat season at Doncaster on Saturday. Ralph Beckett’s lightly-raced colt was a well backed winner over course and distance last month and heads the betting from Penhill and Seamour at 10/1. Betfred spokesman Andrew Griffiths said: “Argus boasts the perfect profile for the November Handicap and is the one to beat off the back of landing a gamble on Town Moor last month.” Smad Place was a cosy winner on his seasonal reappearance over fences at Kempton this afternoon and has been cut to 14/1 (from 20/1) by Betfred for the Hennessy Gold Cup.

Betfred November Handicap – sponsors bet: 6 Argus; 10 Penhill, Seamour; 12 Awake My Soul, Green Light, Litigant, Mistiroc, Super Kid; 14 Ladurelli, Low Key; 16 Cousin Khee, Esteaming; 20 Agent Gibbs, Buonarroti, Craggaknock, Eton Rambler, First Mohican, Giantstepsahead, Latenightrequest, Off Art, Only Orsenfoolsies, Pearl Castle, Storm Force Ten; 25 Barwick, Blue Hussar, Handiwork, Instant Karma, Manhattan Swing, Multellie, Paddys Motorbike, Stock Hill Fair, Villa Royale, Zand; 33 Bazooka, Shrewd, Swnymor, Trimoulet; 40 Captain Navarre, Two Jabs; 50 Tyrsal. ¼ 1-2-3-4 The traditional end of season finale gets underway on Saturday, November 7 and will be the last opportunity of the season to witness British Flat racing in all its glory.

As well as enjoying seven quality races, racegoers will be able to see Cock O’ the North awarded to the Northern-based jockey who rides the most winners at the end of the flat season. Following an action-packed day of racing at the Town Moor venue there will be a variety of live entertainment on offer, including food, drink and an energetic performance in the exhibition hall from Big Party Band , who will play tracks from well-known artists such as The Kings of Leon, Amy Winehouse, Madonna and Chaka Khan. There will also be the chance to take on former world champion Dennis Taylor in a pool challenge and win tickets to the prestigious 2016 Betfred World Snooker Championship in Sheffield. Kieran Gallagher, executive director of Doncaster Racecourse said: “The November Handicap is always a firm favourite on the racing calendar and a great way to end the flat season. It will combine quality racing with exciting entertainment in a relaxed, fun environment.

“The crowning of Cock O’ The North is always a popular event and the appearance of snooker legend Dennis Taylor is sure to create a real buzz around the place.” Share this: achandler2015 Racing Horse Racing; DONCASTER Racecourse is making final preparations for a prestigious racing fixture which regularly showcases future champions of the sport. Racing Post Trophy Day , the final Group 1 event of the British Flat Racing season, gets underway on Saturday October 24, and following the 2013 victory by Kingston Hill, which went on to win last year’s St Leger, race-goers can expect to be thrilled by some top class racing action at Town Moor. Kieran Gallagher, executive director at Doncaster Racecourse, said: “Racing Post Trophy Day is synonymous with high quality racing and offers race-goers the chance to witness the future champions of British Horse racing as they battle it out for the coveted Group 1 Racing Post Trophy. Kingston Hill rode to victory in the feature race in 2013 and then went on to win the St Leger in 2014, so we could well see some of next year’s English Classic winners making an appearance.

“All eyes will be on Doncaster favourite Andrea Atzeni who will be looking to make a hat-trick of wins after riding Kingston Hill to victory in 2013 and Elm Park in 2014.” Racing Post Trophy Day is the second day of a two day meeting which gets underway on Friday October 23. The fixture is the penultimate Flat meeting of the Town Moor calendar which culminates with the Betfred November Handicap on November 07, which will see the presentation of the Cock O’ The North awarded to the Northern based jockey who rides most winners between the Lincoln meeting and the end of the flat season. Racing Post Trophy Day will also see the crowning of the ‘ Go Racing in Yorkshire Best Dressed Lady 2015 ’. The competition will bring together nine winners from the county’s ‘Best Dressed Lady’ competitions held between May and September, including Doncaster’s very own Best Dressed Lady, Kirsty Booth. They will battle it in the style stakes for the chance to claim the coveted title and a package of prizes including the chance to become the face of Go Racing in Yorkshire’s 2016 campaign, a luxury two night spa break and a piece of vintage jewellery.

Judging will take place in the parade ring after the second race which is due off at 2:35pm. Other off-the track highlights include a performance by the Richie Muir Band who will take to the stage in the Exhibition Hall to entertain guests after racing On Racing Post Trophy Day gates open at 12pm and the first gets underway at 2.00pm, the race card concludes at 5.30pm. Share this: Attendance up for prestigious race meeting Mon, Mar 31, 2014 ONE OF Yorkshire's leading sporting venues has recorded its highest attendance figures for a prestigious race meeting that traditionally marks the start of horse racing's Flat season. Crowds of almost 13,000 flocked to Doncaster Racecourse on Saturday, March 29 for the famous William Hill Lincoln - a famous Heritage Handicap over a straight mile which traditionally begins the new Flat turf racing season. A large number of people also got to enjoy some fantastic on and off the track action at Sunday's Mother's Day Family Fun Day, day two of the popular meeting.

With over 20,000 people through the turnstiles in total over the weekend, the Town Moor Racecourse recorded its highest attendance figures since it re-opened following major redevelopment works in 2007. Mark Spincer, managing director of Doncaster Racecourse said: "The prestigious William Hill Lincoln, which traditionally marks the start of the Flat season, is always a popular meeting with some leading runners and riders lining up and major prize money up for grabs. This year we're delighted to have welcomed our largest crowd since our reopening for the feature raceday, and we were really encouraged to see so many families turning out on Mother's Day for our Family Fun Day too. "All credit to all of the hospitality team and ground-staff who worked so hard preparing for the weekend and making sure it ran smoothly.

We're committed to ensuring that the course is in the best possible condition for each and every race that is run here and that guests leave us having had a thoroughly entertaining day, and it's fantastic to see that the hard work is really paying off." The William Hill-branded flat caps, which were given away free to racegoers to mark the start of Britain's turf flat racing season, proved very popular with crowds embracing the iconic Yorkshire headwear. Lucy Rhodes, marketing manager for Doncaster Racecourse, said "Racegoers loved the flat cap initiative and we had a massive response on social media and in the local press. We'll definitely be bringing them back next year, but for now - the flat is most definitely back!" Doncaster is set to race next on Friday 25 April, followed by two Saturdays of evening racing (26 April and 3 May) followed by live entertainment from a Beatles Tribute and Irish band Murphy's Marbles, respectively. Doncaster Racecourse's Father's Day Family Fun Day is set to return on Sunday June 15, with Peppa Pig making regular appearances at intervals throughout the day.

This summer raceday is set to be bigger and better than ever before with a packed schedule of entertainment planned for the kids. Horse Racing - Sport | Welcome to Yorkshire Share this page Horse Racing No other region in the UK is as passionate about horse racing as Yorkshire. The county is synonymous with the sport of kings, with no fewer than nine top class courses - more than any other region in the UK - holding over 170 meetings each year and home to numerous winning stables including Middleham, Malton and Richmond. Whatever style of racing you prefer, you'll be spoilt for choice in Yorkshire, with six flat racing courses at York, Beverley, Pontefract, Redcar, Ripon and Thirsk, a specialist National Hunt course at Wetherby, and dual courses offering monthly racing either on the flat or over jumps at Catterick in the north and Doncaster in the south. Famous racing festivals staged in Yorkshire include the Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor meeting and the St Leger at Doncaster - the oldest classic horse race in the world. Visitors wanting to purchase tickets should contact the relevant racecourse directly.

Whether you are looking for a day out to celebrate a special occasion with family and friends, or want to entertain, reward people or if you want to enjoy a day at the races in comfort and style let Dine & View in Yorkshire arrange your perfect day at the races. Go Racing in 2016 Horse racing makes a great day out for family and friends Boasting more top racecourses than any other region of the UK, not to mention a string of successful stables and the Northern Racing College, Yorkshire is synonymous with the very best in British horseracing. There are nine Yorkshire racecourses - Beverley, Catterick, Doncaster, Pontefract, Redcar, Ripon, Thirsk, Wetherby and York. Our nine courses host 180 days of racing throughout the year, from the pure adrenaline of championship races to the relaxed informality of our family days. Beverley Racing at Beverley has taken place since 1690 on the beautiful rolling expanse of common land known locally as the Westwood, just a short walk from the market town of Beverley.

Beverley Racecourse combines a stunning location, great grass-roots racing, friendly staff, smart facilities, delicious food and a warm Yorkshire welcome to cement its reputation as one of the most charming and friendly courses in the North of England. The season starts in April and lasts until late September, with a whole range of themed meetings to suit all racegoers, from family days featuring petting zoos and Frozen singalongs, through to glamorous evening meetings. Entry starts from just £5 with under 18s going free. Beverley is the only Racecourse in the East Riding of Yorkshire, just 10 miles from the east coast city of Hull, and a short 13 mile hop from the M62, so really easy to get to with ample free parking when you do get here. Find out more... Catterick Catterick's 27 race meetings per year put it second only to Doncaster in the quantity of races hosted, but there's plenty of quality too. One of just two courses in Yorkshire to offer both flat and National Hunt racing, Catterick Racecourse hosts meetings every month, and gets things underway as early as possible with the very first jumps gathering of the year on New Year's Day.

You will find Catterick Racecourse (since 1783) in the hamlet of Catterick Bridge close to the Catterick Garrison, the worlds' largest British Army barracks, and home to around 12000 soldiers. The venue, close to the A1, is also home to Catterick Sunday market, the largest in the north of England Calendar In course's Flat season begins in March, with 17 meetings running right through to November. In December it's back to the fences again. And it never stops! Catterick's flat season includes three evening meetings. Doncaster Doncaster is a truly historic racing destination, boasting not just one, but two, of the world's oldest races and a heritage of regular race meetings dating back to the 16th century. The Doncaster Cup is the world's oldest continuously run race. The horses were first 'off' in 1766. Just ten years later the legendary St Leger , named after Colonel Anthony St Leger, got underway, making it now the oldest of the five 'classics' (it's also the longest).

Doncaster racecourse is one of only two in Yorkshire to offer both flat racing and National Hunt jump racing. It hosts races in every month of the year and can lay claim to be Yorkshire's most prolific track. Calendar When racing gets underway at Doncaster's classic Town Moor course, on the outskirts of the town, the world takes notice. The Lincoln meeting in April marks the start of the UK flat racing season, which also ends with Doncaster's November Handicap. The St Leger Festival in September features the last of the season's classics, and the longest at 1 mile 6 furlongs. Doncaster is easy to get to, by car via the A1, by train via the East Coast main line, or even by air to Doncaster Robin Hood Airport just seven miles away. Pontefract Pontefract, home of the rich and iconic liquorice cakes, has offered top notch horse racing for over two centuries. How do we know? Well, in 1802 members' badges were sold for £50! Today you can enjoy the friendly flavour of this great Yorkshire racecourse for a lot less than that.

Pontefract racecourse prides itself on catering for the racegoer, and is not short on experience. Not only has racing taken place in the town since 1648, but the current course was one of just two northern venues to have staged racing during World War II - proving Pontefract's 'show must go on' passion for horse racing that continues to this day. Pontefract's flat race meetings generate great atmosphere in intimate surroundings, and are invariably graced with competitive racing too. The home straight of over 2 furlongs, with the last 4 furlongs of the course uphill, guarantees some grandstand finishes among strong horses. Calendar Pontefract's flat racing season runs from early April to mid October and takes place on the longest continuous horse racing circuit in Europe at 2 miles and 125yds. The 16 meetings planned for 2013 include three evening meetings (including Pontefract's Got Talent, Singles Night and a beer festival) and three Family Day Sunday meetings, not forgetting Ladies Day in August.

Situated just off junction 32 of the M62 (the other side of the motorway from the Xscape snow zone) just outside the market town itself, Pontefract races offer a welcoming experience that attracts lively crowds of racegoers from across the north. Redcar Redcar is Yorkshire's only coastal town race course, situated a few miles north of Middlesborough near the mouth of the River Tees! Before today's course opened up its turf in the 1870s, racing actually took place on the nearby Sands of Coatham. More recently, Redcar, a former fishing community, provided the setting for the beach scenes in the recent Oscar-winning film Atonement. Redcar's modern racecourse is set in 72 panoramic acres, and easily accessed by road, rail and air, or even on foot from the town centre. Ripon More commonly known as Yorkshires Garden Racecourse, Ripon has hosted some of the most exciting and prestigious racing for more than 300 years. Impressing with its outstanding back drop, the racecourse is suitably located in one of the country's most beautiful and quaint cities.

With the market town being one of the oldest cities in England it is a great place to visit. With 16 flat meetings from April to September including stating special events such as Ladies' Day, Family Day and in mid-August the ‘Great St Wilfrid Stakes', it certainly is one of Yorkshires hidden gems. Ripon has hosted some of the most exciting, prestigious and enjoyable racing in the country for more than 300 years. It never fails to impress year on year with its outstanding back drop and exciting atmosphere. Always challenging itself to improve and build on spectator experience, Ripon has a lot to offer. Ripon Racecourse is known widely for its picturesque surroundings, and was fittingly presented with the Gold Rose Award by Yorkshire in Bloom; the regional body representing the Britain in Bloom campaign. We are one of the few racecourses to boast a giant screen, which is ideally located opposite the main stand adding to the excitement of each race; providing clear footage of all the action. You'll find all the action is situated close to the A1, 11 miles north of Harrogate.

Thirsk Thirsk's fame as the real-life setting for the work of author and vet, James Herriot, provides a backdrop for a visit to one of Yorkshire's most beautiful racecourses - Thirsk Racecourse . The compact and scenic circuit of this local market town, nestled in the broad vale in the Hambleton area between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales, makes for a perfect day out for visitors to the region looking for a laid back racecourse with an excess of charm. There's great history too. Racing in the area began on the nearby Hambleton Hills almost exactly 400 years ago under King James I. More recently (the 1700s!) one of Thirsk's biggest races, the Thomas Lord Stakes, was named after Thomas Lord a local resident who became the founder of Lord's Cricket Ground. The current compact and attractive course in Station Road opened in 1855. Wetherby Yorkshire's only exclusively National Hunt Jumps Racecourse, with easy access to Wetherby Town, and only 12 miles from Leeds, Wetherby Racecourse is one of the most convenient and enjoyable places to follow National Hunt racing in Britain.

Wetherby's season runs from October throught to May, with approximately 17 fixtures between. While every raceday at Wetherby provides an exciting day out, the course does offer some highlight meetings which simply must not be missed... The bet365 Charlie Hall Meeting, is a two-day meeting which takes place in early November. The meeting, which offers a total of £245,000 in prize money, is a significant highlight in the National Hunt Calendar, and offers a quality two-day race programme, including two listed races on the first day and the John Smith's Hurdle and bet365 Charlie Hall Steeplechase on the second day. The £1000,000 bet365 Charlie Hall Steeplechase is widely acknowledged as one of the most important and influential early-season trials for top-quality chasers as they set out on the long road to the Cheltenham and Grand National Festivals. Previous recent winners of the race include Nacarat, Deep Purple, State of Play, Our Vic and Weird Al.

Another fixture which is a definite diary date is the Christmas Meeting, which takes place on 26th (Boxing Day) and 27th December. This meeting brings people together and offers an exciting day out for family and friends over the festive season. Over 20,000 people now attend over the two-days which generates an atmosphere that you simply have to be part of to fully appreciate. Join the Ritual this Christmas at Wetherby and make the day part of your Yorkshire Christmas. During the season Wetherby also provide a host of additional themed days, which as well as the racing action, provide a slightly different range of additional attractions and entertainment to suit all. Irish Day is a great day out for the lads, Family Day combines racing with fun-fair rides and a circus, while Ladies' Evening is a chance for everyone to really dress to impress. Find out more about Wetherby Racecourse and their calendar of races... York York Racecourse has long been known as the Ascot of the north, and truly lived up to that name in 2005 by brilliantly hosting the Royal Ascot festival, as the iconic southern course underwent redevelopment.

Since then the already world-class Knavesmire flat racing course and facilities at York have gone from strength to strength and, set in one of Britain's flagship heritage destinations, provide a truly memorable place to spend a day (or more!) racing, whether you attend one of its prestige festivals or a simple family Sunday. You will find the Knavesmire to the south west of York's historic city centre, just off the A64 and an easy 20-minute or so walk (or even easier bus ride) from its elegant East Coast mainline railway station, once the largest in Europe. If you are looking for a place in history, you'll certainly find it here. The Knavesmire has been home to racing in York for 280 years, but this city has hosted horse races since Roman times....2000 years ago!

Flat Racing Calendar | Horse Racing Flat Fixtures | Horseracing Season Events Cheltenham Results Flat Racing Fixtures and Main Events While we regard the Cheltenham festival as the greatest horse racing in the World, we have to accept that Flat racing has its place and in fact some of the best National Hunt winners at the Cheltenham Festival started life racing on the Flat. This is why we would like to acknowledge the best of the Flat Horse Racing fixtures from around the World including the 5 English Classics, the very best of the Irish Classics and of course the best from other parts of the globe including the L'Arc De Triomphe from France and the Melbourne Cup from Melbourne Australia. The English Flat season starts in early April just after the Aintree Grand National and the first two classics of the season the 2000 Guineas and the 1000 Guineas in early May at the home of flat racing Newmarket. These great races are then quickly followed by the English Derby Betting and the Oaks at the beautiful Epsom racecourse Later in the flat season comes the St Ledger at Doncaster and this is for the real stayers.

In between all of these great races there is the Royal Ascot Races meeting and the Glorious Goodwood meeting with top class group races to be won. After the St Ledger the big flat races move overseas to France and the L'Arc De Triomphe and Australia for the Melbourne Cup. There is the Japan Cup where some really big prize money can be won and of course the Dubai Festival where there are raiders from all over the World. The great coverage on TV allows us to see all these great events live and also all the big Irish Classics including the Irish Derby on attheraces TV. All of these big race days are covered very well by the leading online bookmakers listed on this site and all feature all the Flat racing ante post betting markets and Flat horse racing free bets for new customers placing bets on their sites. Where to go for the best of the summer's horse racing | David Myers | Sport | The Guardian Where to go for the best of the summer's horse racing Now is the time to sample some of the quirkiest and most entertaining racing of the year Goodwood racecourse is one of the most picturesque racecourses in the world - it's not called Glorious Goodwood for nothing!

Photograph: Julian Herbert/Getty Images Tuesday 9 June 2009 13.15 EDT First published on Tuesday 9 June 2009 13.15 EDT Share on Messenger Close How many times have you been to the races? Once, twice, maybe never – it may be you never want to. Well, if the Department of Health's current campaign to cut down on spreading germs – catch it, bin it, kill it – has had the desired effect, then I'm hoping the next few thousand words will play a similar role: pick it, back it, go and watch it. OK, the latter manoeuvre is one that can be achieved in the comfort of your own armchair or the betting shop – they're a lot more pleasurable these days by the way – but the experience of attending a race meeting is one to savour; think football stadium. There is also no excuse if you're a football fan as the domestic season has closed the door until mid-August and, as there is no World Cup or Euro Championship to cling on to, now is the ideal time to make a visit to the track.

To enjoy a day at the races you don't a need pair of heavy binoculars or the ability to waffle horsey jargon – that comes later – just a few quid and an appetite for fun. I took my in-laws – including a non-gambler – to Newmarket for the first time a few summers ago and they really enjoyed it as there was plenty going on, including a Jools Holland concert at the end of racing. The fact that they enjoy their food and found a few winners also helped – my mother-in-law did anyway – but they returned to Newmarket the following season and are looking forward to their next visit. So here is a rundown of some of the leading events going on at British racetracks during the peak summer months. Friday 12 June, Aintree racecourse – Racing and music night with Status Quo Aintree played host to Madness indoors last year which proved a huge success but Status Quo will be rocking outdoors this time – their only visit to the north-west this year. There are also three £10,000 races to watch, along with a special 'access all areas' to racegoers.

This means anyone who ever wanted to watch a horse cross the winning line at Aintree from one of the posh seats, such as in the Queen Mother's Stand, will get an opportunity. Tip: There is a rumour of a fish and chips offer for racegoers, so don't fill up too much before hitting the track. Tuesday 16 - Saturday 20 June, Ascot racecourse – Royal Ascot Tickets are still on sale for the big meeting in June but, if colossal crowds and queues are not your thing, why not return for either the King George or Shergar Cup meeting on 24-26 July and 8 August respectively. The latter fixture is becoming a popular family day as some of the world's top jockeys are invited to strut their stuff, while after racing various 80s pop stars such as Bucks Fizz will also be attempting to do their best. There is live music throughout the day around the Bandstand, and the Plaza Lawns will stage fairground rides along with Punch and Judy. Tip: Arrive before racing and head for the parade ring where jockeys will be autographing the racecard.

Friday 19 June, Ayr racecourse – Saints and Sinners Race Night One of Scotland's big social nights of the year that raises money for charity. Switched from Hamilton racecourse in 2008 to allow bigger attendances and therefore increase the opportunity to raise more money, this year's event is already promising to be a corker with Scottish celebrities guaranteed in the crowd, including Celtic and Rangers stars, plus the presenter and comedian Fred MacAuley. Tip: Autograph hunters take note as there is a rumour that Rangers' assistant coach, Ally McCoist, may be turning up. Saturday 20 June, Haydock – The Charlatans Music Evening Haydock's slogan is simple: Serious sport, serious fun. They also know how to look after the ladies, with five Ladies' Days throughout the long summer, where regular fashion shows, involving companies such as Debenhams, are always popular. One of the big nights is expected to be on 20 June when The Charlatans entertain up to 10,000 racegoers and Bjorn Again pay a visit on 18 July.

Tip: Guys looking to score points with the other half can kill two birds with one stone as there will be plenty to keep the ladies interested while betting commences in the background. Friday 26 June, Folkestone racecourse – Builders' Day The Kent venue will be staging their most valuable race day ever on the Flat – featuring the Folkestone Hammer sprint – in association with local building companies in the area. Many of the corporate boxes have already been booked by building companies, who will be celebrating the traditional 'poets day' – the last working day of the week – so don't expect to see many builders after midday in Kent. There is also an 80s night planned on 23 July, where racegoers are invited to enter competitions such as the largest mobile phone, the fastest person to complete the Rubik's cube, best 80s hairstyle – I'm in with a shout then – and best 80s dressed person (I really must go). Tip: Dig out your 80s silk tracksuit and you could be in with a chance of making a few quid.

If that fails, then back jockey Richard Hughes' mounts or follow trainer John Dunlop, who likes to have winners here. Saturday 27 June, Doncaster racecourse – live concert after racing There is plenty going on at Doncaster throughout the summer, including the St Leger meeting in September and the Status Quo concert on Thursday 23 July. But those looking for a decent day's racing with an open-air concert to follow will enjoy 27 June when Lemar, Jamelia and Alesha Dixon, of BBC Strictly Come Dancing fame, all perform live. Tip: There isn't one, just go and enjoy the music! Thursday 25-27 June, Newcastle racecourse – John Smith's Northumberland Plate Meeting You could say the Geordies are looking forward to this one – especially after Newcastle were relegated – as the homepage has a clock counting down to Northumberland Day. The Northumberland takes place on the Saturday, which is Europe's most valuable two-mile handicap, while celebrities that have graced the track of late include Peter Beardsley and Alan Shearer – perhaps the latter won't show up this year!

The follow-up is Ladies Day on 25 July where the first 1,000 women through the turnstiles – are there turnstiles any more? – receive a free goody bag, while the top 10 outfits stand a chance of winning first prize of a cruise. Tip: Those who enjoy their history may want to arrive well before racing as, for the first time, the course resurrects some history of the Northumberland Plate – formerly the Pitman's Derby – in getting the Wansbeck Colliery and Ashington Band to play. Friday 3 July, Beverley racecourse – Cocktails & Calypso Night Beverley officials are pulling out the stops in hiring real cocktail makers to entertain at their cocktail bar for the evening. The Premier Enclosure sold out last year, so don't hang around and, if you can't make this date, then consider the Medieval Night on 20 July. In among the crowd will be top tipster, Graham Orange, who will be marking racegoers' cards throughout the evening. Tip: If the cocktails get too much, then consider backing horses drawn in the advantageous high stalls in races over five furlongs – marked in brackets on the racecard.

Saturday 4 July, Leicester racecourse – Hen & Stag Day One of two big race days for Leicester. With stag and hen parties at the forefront of the action, anyone looking for a quiet day would be advised to stay away. However, those looking to enjoy a drink will be glad to see John Smith's providing free sampling and tasting and there will also be plenty of cider. All of this will be followed by a Bad Manners concert featuring Buster Bloodvessel – a few of those may have been burst by racegoers during the day. The other big day at Leicester comes three weeks earlier on 13 June, where radio station Heart 106 hosts the day. This promises to be a touch mellower, however, with a big marquee providing a health spa – John Lewis will be providing goodies – while the best dressed lady gets £500 of shopping vouchers. Anyone accepting the free glass of champagne upon entrance will also be in the mood for the best Elvis tribute act in the world – seriously. Lee 'Memphis' King won a major Elvis tournament in Canada and has been featured on the BBC, so bring your blue suede shoes.

Tip: If you make some money backing trainer Luca Cumani's runners, which show a big profit here, the local advice is to treat yourself to the best beef baps on the racing circuit – form an orderly queue. Friday 10 July, Chester racecourse – Ladies & Gents Night There are several choice days at Chester throughout the summer, including Family Day on 2 August, but Ladies and Gents Night on 10 July encourages individuals to dress up for the annual 'Best Dressed Couple'. This is such serious business that even the stars of Channel 4's Hollyoaks are invited to do the judging. No doubt some of them will be seen in the Champagne Bar near the paddock which creates its own village atmosphere but, if that's not your scene and the champagne is too expensive, then visit the main stands opposite where the serious stuff gets going and two-pint beer glasses are frequently in sight. Tip: If you enjoy yourselves too much and have reserves of stamina, then why not do it all again the following day when Chester stage Totesport Day, one of the busiest days of the year where crowds hit 35,000.

On the racing front, remember to stick with those horses drawn low on the inside stalls in races up to a mile. As in athletics, they tend to win most of the races. Sunday 12 July, Stratford racecourse – Family Day Stratford will be pulling out all the stops in creating a festival atmosphere as there will be a funfair in the centre of the track featuring such favourites as a coconut shy, along with face painters to keep the kids busy, all at no extra charge. There is also the National Festival Circus on show and the Butchers Jazz Band, who I'm told are popular in the area. A week later sees Ladies Day where a whopping £1,000 cash prize will be on offer to the best dressed lady. Tip: Get there early on 12 July and see the Quack Pack – performing ducks if you're wondering. Thursday 16 July, Cartmel racecourse – John Smith's Barbecue Day Voted the best small racecourse in the north last year, along with the most scenic track courtesy of the Racing Post – they know what they're talking about – Cartmel really is Cumbria's best-kept secret.

This barbecue day marks its sixth anniversary, and those wanting to bring a picnic are welcome, while an Epsom-style funfair can be found in the centre of the course. There are also more big dates here in late August, when jugglers and birds of prey are among the attractions, contributing to the Bank Holiday crowds swelling to 18,000. Tip: Locals swear by the famous sticky toffee pudding which was first served in the restaurant but can now be purchased on a stand in the centre of the course. My wife and I could be booking tickets soon! Friday 17 July, Newmarket racecourse – Newmarket Nights: Pussycat Dolls Newmarket has set the trend in recent years for staging concerts after racing and this summer promises to be another popular season for the Newmarket Nights, whose headline act is the Pussycat Dolls. The track has also moved with the times to keep up with the popularity of these events and there are plenty of swanky new bars to hang out at during and after racing. However, those wanting to enjoy top-class racing should attend the three-day July Meeting from Wednesday 10 July when Europe's best sprinters battle it out in the feature race – the July Cup.

A trip down to the furlong marker for this race is a fantastic experience as the rumbling of the horses hooves can be felt as they come into view, while the speed they fly past is a sight not to miss. Tip: If the bustling bars are not your thing, then take a stroll over to the pre-parade ring – the area used before the horses enter the paddock. This area is surrounded by a high wall of trees creating a cool, relaxing spot to enjoy the horses and have a close-up look. Saturday 18 July, Market Rasen racecourse – Summer Plate and Ladies' Day The Channel 4 cameras are usually present for this big day which stages two valuable races in the Summer Plate and Summer Handicap Hurdle. The Journal magazine plays a big part in this event which has a marquee full of hats and jewellery for the ladies while the best dressed gets a prize – bigger, apparently, than in 2008. Tip: Following trainer John Quinn's runners has proved profitable here but, if that fails, head to the lawn area where live music may sooth the pain.

Sunday 26 July, Carlisle racecourse – 'Carlisle Live' Carlisle's biggest evening of the year welcomes stars from last year's X-Factor show, including Eoghan Quigg, Ruth Lorenzo and Laura White. The kids will be entertained by the petwise zoo, circus workshop and climbing wall. Tip: It could get busy around 4pm as the doors open for the concert, so leave enough time. Tuesday 28 July-1 August, Goodwood racecourse – Glorious Goodwood Anyone who uses the phrase 'best racetrack' in a sentence without including the word Goodwood is a liar – no, really. Goodwood is simply a superb venue surrounded by 'glorious' scenery and all the extra trimmings make it worth a visit. Take the paddock area, where the Tote terminals are cleverly located next to the trendy bar areas, ensuring that racegoers don't go hiking between races. The Tannoy is also very clear, making information, like non-runners, easy to understand. The simple things make all the difference.

Tip: Head for the paddock, where the horses parade prior to racing, as there are headphones available that inform you, via an expert in the paddock, what condition the horses are in – all for free. Wednesday 5 August, Kempton racecourse – Irish Night The summer meetings are always a hit as commuters heading home from London can stop off and make their way from the station – Kempton Park has its own – to the track, which is conveniently nearby. Those who like the black stuff will enjoy Irish Night where the Craic will be in full flow during a night of racing, Irish music and entertainment. The party continues with a live concert in the Parade Ring courtesy of the band Rollercoaster. Not to be outdone by our friends from across the Irish Sea, there is also a Best of British Night on 8 July, where a firework display ends the evening. Tip: The three-tier panoramic restaurant is meant to be well worth a try, while the Wednesday package really is excellent value as you get admission, a racecard, a free bet and a drink for £15 – just remember to get off the train if you're nodding off following a hard day at the office.

Saturday 15 August Bangor racecourse – Wrexham Raceday Those of you not suited by the hustle of a packed grandstand will find this unique track ideal as there is no grandstand. Instead there is a circuit of standing banks from which the entire track can be viewed. It is like a bowl. This particular fixture has been staged for more than 10 years and features the £20,000 Dee Hurdle while all the family favourites can be found, including two pony races, plus a barbecue in the paddock area. Residents of Wrexham are also entitled to a 'buy one get one free' ticket. Tip: Pay close attention to any horse in the green and gold striped colours (white cap) of owner JP McManus, who likes to have a winners or two around here. Sunday 16 August, Pontefract racecourse – Family Day Some great deals are on offer if booking in advance for this family day where the course lays on rides, face painters, a bouncy castle, a circus and a marching band. Kids also get either free sweets or an ice cream.

A month earlier sees the Red Shirt Day on 17 July, where the legendary trainer Jack Berry will be on hand to raise more money for charity. Tip: Don't leave without trying the Pontefract liquorice cakes on sale inside the course. Tuesday 18-21 August, York racecourse – The Ebor Festival Known as the 'Royal Ascot of the north', this four-day Festival is one of the best meetings of the calendar and features a host of top-class action, including the big betting race of the week in the totesport Ebor – Europe's most valuable handicap. Two other popular fixtures at York are John Smith's Cup Day on 11 July, where a range of special cask ales will be brought in to toast the occasion, and a fortnight later the stars of X Factor will be playing live. Arrive early for the 25 July event, though, to enjoy the Jockey Dash at the start of the day which raises money for the Injured Jockey's Fund. Tip: Trainer Luca Cumani has enjoyed some profitable Ebor meetings in recent times, including winning the Ebor three times in the last 10 years.

Saturday 22 August, Sandown racecourse – Variety Club Day Sandown stage an array of major race days during the summer, including Eclipse Day on 4 July, while the Pussycat Dolls also turn up the July heat on the 29th. However, one of the most popular days is Variety Club Day – now in its 60th year of raising money for charity. This year Melinda Messenger and children's favourites Fifi and Bumble will be among the celebrities raising a smile. Tip: Take your autograph book as there will be celebrities everywhere – Jimmy Tarbuck is a banker. Saturday 29 August, Redcar racecourse – Commitments Party Night Redcar will be hoping to live up to its nickname of 'sunny Redcar' when it plays host to The Commitments, who will be travelling over from Ireland – not a tribute act but the real deal from the 1991 film. The racecourse will also be giving away free signed photos of the Irish band, along with CDs, DVDs and T-shirts, throughout the evening Tip: Keep hold of your ticket given away with the racecard as further prizes will be announced via random draws during the evening.

Saturday 29 August, Windsor racecourse – Summer Celebration Those unable to travel north for The Commitments at Redcar on this day can gain compensation with the eighties duo Go West at Windsor. I'm told the place to be at Windsor is the Paddock Lawn, where champagne, Pimms and a barbecue can all be enjoyed. Watch the alcohol levels, though, as the racecourse is centred on an island and there's a boat to catch back home. Tip: Arrive in style by catching the boat from Windsor town centre and then back the colours of Cheveley Park Stud – red with a white sash and blue cap – as they show a healthy profit here. For further details, visit each racecourse's website. Hats off to the start of the Flat season Tue, Mar 18, 2014 ONE OF Yorkshire's leading sporting venues has launched a campaign that pays tribute to the current trend for flat caps, marking the return of horse racing's Flat season which gets underway with the famous William Hill Lincoln Handicap at the end of the month.

The Doncaster Racecourse team is ringing in the season by championing the flat cap, recently sported by celebrities including David Beckham and Justin Timberlake and synonymous with Yorkshire gentlemen, by donning striking William Hill-branded flat caps to mark the two-day William Hill Lincoln meeting and the start of Britain's turf flat racing season on Saturday, March 29. During the opening day of the Lincoln racegoers will be encouraged to join in with the flat cap wearing trend by the William Hill Hat Squad who will be giving out 1000 exclusive limited edition flat caps. People will be invited to upload photos of themselves wearing their caps to the William Hill Twitter page using the designated hashtag #TheFlatIsBack - the best ones will get reTweeted and punters could win an iPad mini! Mark Spincer, managing director of Doncaster Racecourse, said: "The start of the Flat season is about to get underway with the prestigious William Hill Lincoln, so we thought we'd have a bit of fun and start a campaign to encourage people to embrace the flat cap trend and celebrate all things Yorkshire.

I hope that plenty of people get involved in donning the fetching headwear on the day." The Town Moor course said goodbye to its National Hunt fixtures, which this year saw many high-profile horses including Annie Power and Rock On Ruby make appearances, with the William Hill Grimthorpe Chase earlier this month culminating a great jump racing season. Doncaster is now getting ready to stage the two-day William Hill Lincoln, which ends on Sunday, March 30. The William Hill Lincoln - a famous Heritage Handicap over a straight mile which traditionally begins the new flat season - takes pride of place as the feature race of the meeting, with the first race scheduled for 1.30pm. Seven races will take place across the opening day, with the final race getting started at 5pm. Mr Spincer added: "The Lincoln, which officially marks the start of the flat season, is always a hugely popular meeting, and this year's raceday looks set to be no exception. We're expecting a strong line- up of horses entered over the two days and it is shaping up to be a really thrilling weekend of racing to get the Flat season underway. "There is always huge advance demand for our feature racedays.

After all of the excitement of the Cheltenham Festival, we're expecting Lincoln to be a busy meeting, so it will be more important than ever to book early." William Hill Lincoln tickets are available now starting at £7.50. For more information or to buy tickets, visit or call 01302 304200.

Question: Horse Racing. Traditionally the flat racing season begins and ends at which racecourse?
Answer: Doncaster