Pairs of amateur dancers from across racing swapped their day jobs for sequins and the spotlight, performing live in front of celebrity judges and a live streaming audience for the chance to lift the coveted Inkerman Glitterball Trophy.

At Newbury, headline sponsor Ladbrokes helped set the stage for a night to remember. Judged by Strictly Come Dancing professional Ola Jordan, Strictly 2009 winner and TV presenter Chris Hollins, and racehorse trainer Richard Phillips, the show delivered both sparkle and skill, with the evening reaching its climax when Darren Gough, former England cricket captain and Strictly Come Dancing champion himself, presented the Inkerman Glitterball Trophy to winners Tom and Sara Malone.

Just a week later, York Racecourse hosted the northern edition, where Strictly Come Dancing star James Jordan, Derby-winning jockey Martin Dwyer, and international dance coach Sadie Wild took their seats on the judging panel. After a night of fierce competition and electric performances, Becky Smith and Hayley Clements were crowned champions and were presented with their own Inkerman trophy by Racing Welfare Chairman Nick Bannister.

Both events were supported by Tote, who sponsored all the dance training, and whose backing helped every dancer prepare for their big moment. RaceTech produced and streamed both evenings live, allowing fans nationwide to donate and vote for their favourite couples, adding to the fundraising total.

Dawn Goodfellow, Chief Executive of Racing Welfare, said:

“Racing Come Dancing has been a phenomenal success. The passion, courage, and commitment shown by our dancers have been truly inspiring, and the support from across the industry has been overwhelming. Huge thanks go to Ladbrokes for headlining our Newbury event, to Tote for sponsoring dance training at both venues, to RaceTech for delivering superb live productions, and to all our dance sponsors for backing the competitors so generously. I’d also like to thank everyone who voted or donated, every contribution helps Racing Welfare continue its vital work for the people at the heart of British racing.”

Alex Apati, Head of PR at Ladbrokes, added:

“We were thrilled to headline the very first Racing Come Dancing at Newbury. It was a spectacular evening full of fun, energy, and camaraderie, a brilliant reflection of racing’s community spirit and a great cause to support.”

The success of Racing Come Dancing has proven it as one of the most exciting new charity events in British racing. Planning is already underway for an even bigger and better return in 2026.

Inspired by this year’s dancers? For anyone who would like to step up, take the floor, and be part of next year’s even bigger, bolder, and more spectacular Racing Come Dancing Contact E: CKingston@racingwelfare.co.uk

Racing Welfare is the only charity that supports everyone working in the British horseracing industry, past and present, through every stage of their life and career, offering vital services for mental health, physical wellbeing, housing, and hardship.

Support can be accessed via a national network of welfare officers, as well as through a 24/7 Support Line, website, and the Racing Welfare App.