Member Article

Thirsk Racecourse demonstrates its love of sport with prestigious award shortlisting

Thirsk Racecourse has been named as one of just five finalists in the ‘Love of Sport’ category of the prestigious ‘Showcase & Awards’, which are hosted by the Racecourse Association (RCA). Selected in recognition of a unique event that saw jockeys and stable staff change places. ‘The Creditas Taking Care of Business Stable Staff Stakes’ gave stable staff the chance to showcase their skills in the saddle whilst also raising £5,000 for Racing Welfare – the charity that supports the workforce of British Horseracing
The race showcased the opportunities available within the sport to a wider audience, it also proved to be a fantastic and interesting concept for stable staff, jockeys and racegoers. The public loved seeing the jockeys leading up the horses for the race and the atmosphere around the parade ring was absolutely fantastic. The race itself was a huge success, with 12 dedicated stable staff riding with the support of their jockeys, and plans are in place to make it an annual event.

The ‘Showcase & Awards’ is the marquee event of British racecourses that annually celebrates first class customer experience in partnership with Moët Hennessy, Racing Breaks, Racing Post and Great British Racing. The ‘Love of Sport’ award recognises initiatives that both enrich and extend the reach of the sport to customers. It also rewards Racecourses that demonstrated the passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and skill of those who work tirelessly in the sport, enhancing both customer enjoyment and education of horseracing. The winner will be revealed at the ‘Showcase & Awards’ ceremony on Thursday 8th November at Aintree Racecourse. James Sanderson, Racecourse Manager at Thirsk Racecourse, said: “We are delighted to have selected as a finalist in the category ‘Love of the Sport’. We are up against some stiff competition, so to get this far is a great achievement for the whole Thirsk team.” Caroline Davies, RCA Racecourse Services Director, said: “I am thrilled for Thirsk Racecourse for its success in being named a Finalist at the 2018 Showcase & Awards. “It is one of the most exciting times of year to see the Showcase submissions go before the judges to demonstrate the care and attention given to enhancing the raceday experience. “I extend my congratulations to the team for their hard work in securing this achievement as one of our Finalists and wish them the best of luck ahead of the Awards ceremony at Aintree Racecourse on Thursday 8th November.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Mortimer .