Project Description

Newmarket, Goodwood, Epsom and Ascot are getting ready for the start of a new, exciting flat racing season.

The end of April and beginning of May, in fact, mark the start of the flat racing season for some of the biggest racecourses. Our RTA Publicity crews have been regularly working at these venues for years, producing branded signage and advertisement for an array of our clients. Here is a breakdown of the biggest events kicking off this year’s flat racing season, along with some of the best pictures our crews have taken over the years.

Flat Racing at Newmarket Racecourse

Newmarket Racecourse is getting ready to host the world-famous QIPCO Guineas Festival, a 3-day event revolving entirely around world-class flat racing.

The festival, hosted by Rowley Mile, will start on Friday 29th April, and it will be kicked off by the Fillies Maiden Stakes (start time 1-15pm) on day one, followed by two classics of the season – the 2000 Guineas (Saturday 30th April) and 1000 Guineas (Sunday 1st May).

It’s a tradition at Newmarket Racecourse that the races are followed by a live DJ set for the “Après Racing” event. Special guests this year are Pat Sharp on the Saturday and Radio 1 DJ, Chris Stark on the Sunday.

Flat Racing at Goodwood Racecourse

The flat racing season opener at Goodwood is quickly approaching, as the venue is getting ready to welcome guests on 29th and 30th April to offer two days packed with exciting behind the scenes experiences and a complete introduction to racing.

The venue will also be offering a variety of “behind the scenes” experiences. With activities like minibus trips to the starts and Racing To School, the younger ones will have the opportunity to learn more about horse racing with various ‘have a go’ elements, including the chance to ride a mechanical horse. On the Saturday, there is a ‘Meet the Racehorse’ stable and a parade of famous ex-racehorses including the Queen’s horse, Barbers Shop.

The venue will also be host to the renowned Qatar Goodwood Festival, one of the undisputed highlights of the British Flat racing season. The festival will start on 26th July, offering 5 days of “spellbinding sport and a social occasion like no other”.

Flat Racing at Epsom Racecourse

Fans will have to wait a little for the next big flat racing event held at Epsom Racecourse, as the Cazoo Derbyis set to happen in early June.

Besides being an opportunity for unparalleled, unmatchable flat racing, this year’s derby is poised to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, making this historic event even more special. As the racecourse gets ready for a glorious opening to their flat racing season, visitors have the chance to secure themselves a spot for Ladies Day – which will open the dances on 3rd June – or Derby Day – an unmissable day for any flat racing enthusiasts.

Flat Racing at Ascot Racecourse

While we’ll have to wait a little longer for Royal Ascot, the venue is preparing to open their season with their traditional inaugural meeting, the Royal Ascot Trials Day.

This “top-class affair” will give horses the opportunity to gain experience ahead of Royal Ascot, while visitors will be able to enjoy a day packed with exciting races at one of the world’s most renowned horseracing venues.

Royal Ascot will return from June 14th-18th, presenting a “spellbinding explosion of the senses” and offering 5 days of world-class racing. Since its first inaugural run, the event is now well established as the jewel in the crown of the British social season, offering unparalleled racing, classy style and fine dining.