Wednesday 27th April is a day when Pontefract traditionally looks to the future stars of racing – it’s the 27th Annual Northern Racing College Charity Day!
The entire race meeting is unique in the fact that the body of the card sees races sponsored by William Hill, totepool, Betfred, Ladbrokes and Coral. All these bookmakers traditionally set aside their commercial rivalry on this day in order to encourage the grass roots and future of the sport.
The Northern Racing College, based just outside Doncaster, was set up in 1984 and provides a range of courses at all levels for people who are looking at the horseracing industry as a future career. It also offers those currently in the business the chance to develop their qualifications and skills.
The racing on the day also casts an eye to future stars. The opening 2yo Maiden, jointly sponsored by the EBF and William Hill is historically an informative event. Won a few years ago by the subsequent successful globetrotter, Peniaphobia, last year’s winner, Sixth Sense, went on to win at Listed level and was a regular in Group races.
The 3yo totepool Maiden also has a rich history – John Gosden’s Royal Ascot winner ‘Remote’ made his debut in this and the same trainer’s ‘Fallen For A Star’ was runner up to ‘Glan Y Gors’ in the event last year.
We’ll be on the lookout for another superstar to hit the Ponte turf this year.
Again, looking ahead to the stars of tomorrow, the card concludes with the 3rd Round of the Go Racing In Yorkshire Future Stars Apprentice Handicap. The 2015 series was won by Josh Doyle who is attached to the hugely successful David O’Meara yard. The duo teamed up to be runners up in this race last year behind Mick Easterby’s Iggy.
The £15,000 Ladbrokes Fillies’ Handicap is the feature race on the card and Luca Cumani’s ‘Pleasant Valley’ was a hugely impressive winner last year. On a strong supporting card, the Betfred Handicap over 6f also saw the first Ponte victory for Trinity Star who doubled up later in the season season.
The Racecourse Postcode Lottery gives the opportunity for anyone based in Sheffield to come racing for just £2. By registering a utility bill with the Racecourse, residents can get a ticket to the Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure at the heavily discounted rate.
The Racecourse will once again be offering discounted tickets to those who book in advance – see www.pontefract-races.co.uk for more information.