Stars out to emulate some of racing's greats as Warwick hosts Grade II Kingmaker Chase - The Leamington Observer

Stars out to emulate some of racing's greats as Warwick hosts Grade II Kingmaker Chase

Leamington Editorial 7th Feb, 2017   0

SOME of horse racing’s rising stars will be looking to emulate the likes of Long Run and Viking Flagship in Warwick this Saturday (February 11) at the course’s annual Kingmaker Chase Day.

The Grade II Betway Kingmaker Novices’ Chase is the highlight on the card, won last year by the Gary Moore trained Violet Dancer.

Often used as a stepping stone towards success in the Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy – the second race on day one of the Cheltenham Festival – the race provides a stiff jumping test for horses new to chasing, making the two mile distance full of thrills.

Also featuring on the day will be OLBG Mares’ Hurdle, won before by Glen’s Melody, three handicap races and two additional novice contests asides from the feature race.




A challenge has also been set to find the smartest gentlemen in town as the course hosts its Best Dressed Gentleman competition.

Judges will be looking for the best sported blazers, top hats and vibrant trousers – with prizes up for grabs including a BMW 4 Series Coupe for a weekend, tickets to The Cheltenham Festival, annual family passes to Warwick Castle and vouchers to Warwickshire Golf and Country Club.


Andre Klein, general manager at Warwick Racecourse, said the raceday provides the perfect opportunity for gents to dress up in their finest clothing and watch some first class racing.

He said: “I’m sure the judges on the day will have a tough time in picking the best dressed man as in previous years everyone has really got into the spirit which has made for a fun afternoon.

“Of course, by no means is it compulsory to dress up!

“The Betway Kingmaker Novices’ Chase is a two mile race used as a preparation event for the very prestigious Arkle Steeplechase, one of the gems of The Festival.

“There’s a host of previous winners which have gone on to win some of the sport’s biggest prizes and will be well known to people.

“These names include previous Gold Cup winner Long Run, Queen Mother Champion Chase winners Finians Rainbow, Viking Flagship and Voy Por Ustedes and Martell Chase winner Arctic Kinsman.

“We’re looking forward to seeing who will be added to this illustrious list and hopefully we’ll see a few stars of the future again.”

Gates open at 11.30am with the first of seven races set to take place at 1.30pm.

Further information and ticket details can be found at www.warwickracecourse.co.uk.

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