Christmas jumpers at Wincanton Racecourse’s iconic Boxing Day meeting
It was the day after Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
With a slight twist, one of the best known Christmas verses could easily be applied to Wincanton on Boxing Day with many of the townsfolk likely to head up the road to the racecourse to continue their Christmas celebrations.
And with the busy festive jump racing season approaching, trainers too from across the county have been readying their horses while getting into the Christmas spirit at the same time.
Horses from Jeremy Scott’s High Holworthy yard in Exmoor were recently schooled over a chase fence wrapped up like a Christmas present - and they loved it! Native Robin ridden by Nick Scholfield and Garrane with Emily Jones on board flew over the fences in preparation for their festive engagements.
“We did think they’d look at it, and think it was the most extraordinary thing, and refuse to jump, but they jumped straight over it, and didn’t bat an eye lid.”
“Our owners love racing on Boxing Day and with Wincanton one of our favourite courses it would be great to have one or two runners there. It almost makes Christmas complete. It’s a great tradition.”
- Jeremy Scott, Holworthy Farm
Boxing Day racing is a nation-wide tradition, and Wincanton’s meeting is immensely popular.
“People love Boxing Day racing - it’s part and parcel of the Christmas celebrations. I hope to have entries at Wincanton where there’s always a fantastic atmosphere and it will be packed with lots of very happy people. It’s a festive time of the year and everyone has such a great time.”
- David Pipe, Trainer
Seven races make up the card including the long-standing The Jockey Club Lord Stalbridge Memorial Chase for which much loved staying chasers are likely to be in the line-up.
Advance tickets are available from £18 with children aged 17 and under racing free. Gates open at 10:30am with the first race off at 12:20pm.
All tickets booked in advance for Wincanton’s Boxing Day meeting will be entered into a draw to win two tickets to The FestivalTM presented by Magners.
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