Two of Britain’s top Group 1 tracks have recently announced significant concessions for racing staff at some of their most popular meetings this summer.
Earlier this week, Ascot pledged to support an initiative promoted by the National Trainers’ Federation in conjunction with RacingGroom.com in which 200 Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup day tickets will be made available exclusively to racing staff.
The international jockeys’ competition on Saturday, August 10, is traditionally a sell-out and is followed by a post-racing live headline concert from Jessie J. with DJ set by Tinie Tempah and performance from Go West.
Nick Smith Director of Racing and Communications at Ascot, said, “This year we will be extending our thanks to racing staff, who are fundamental to keeping the show on the road, by making 200 Queen Anne Enclosure tickets available through the RacingGroom.com scheme in addition to the £5,000 prizes available to those participating.”
Newbury racecourse will make available 50 complimentary Grandstand tickets for racing staff on a first-come-first-served basis on Saturday (20 July), when the Berkshire track stages the £250,000 Weatherbys Super Sprint followed by a live concert from Tom Jones, and a further 50 for the meeting on Saturday, 17 August, when the race programme features the G2 Ladyswood Stud Hungerford Stakes and the G3 Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Stakes followed by Ska legends,Madness live in concert.
Harriet Collins Director of Marcomms at Newbury Racecourse added: “We are pleased to have allocated a number of tickets for racing staff to enjoy our upcoming Party in the Paddock events this year.”
George McGrath, Chief Executive of the National Association of Racing Staff, said, “I am delighted that Newbury and Ascot have joined Newmarket in recognising the valuable contribution racing staff make to the industry and have backed this up by providing tickets for their music events.
“Other racecourses are also coming on board to enhance the raceday experience for racing staff. Stratford has recently introduced free food at all their meetings, while Goodwood will again be providing food and entertainment for staff every evening during the forthcoming Qatar Goodwood Festival.”