And they’re off… for a fantastic fun day out at Newbury Races for the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes.
Easy to reach, close up to the racing and the horses, it’s a well-organised, classy day out.
With acres of green turf, enough room to roam and plenty of food and drink outlets, Newbury Races have got it right. A regular racegoer confided that, at ‘the Al Shaqab’ the hospitality is a cut above the rest on the circuit. We weren’t disappointed – pink champagne, canapes, cupcakes, cheeseboards – the lot. We were spoiled rotten.
toasting a fun day out at Newbury Races
Of course we dressed for the occasion – why not?
No top hat and tails here – just elegant, laid back style – the other guests anyway!
It’s a treat to see something so quintessentially English done so well.
It’s one of the sporting highlights in the UK, since 1958 when the Queen’s horse Pall Mall won – and even non-race goers will recognise the names of winning jockeys such as this year’s Frankie Dettori and Lester Piggott.
cut out of maninlondon with super jockey Frankie
First things first, getting a lie of the land. Helipad over there, check, buggy to bring in the VIPS, check, fancy badges, check, bars and restaurants, check and oh so many betting opportunities.
taking a punt on GM Hopkins in the BIG race for £350,000!
We were never more than fifty feet to get in a cheeky bet. On the course, in the booths and even a roaming Tote man for a lucky dip. Not that we won – well, not if you don’t count £9.50 on each way.
GM Hopkins (GB) –
We got a bit giddy, and not just from the champagne. Checking out the talent – magnificent beasts close up, every muscle toned with mirror-shine glossy coats. Not the guests – the thoroughbreds.
a fun day at the races
Before the race, in come the stable boys with the liveries and then the jockeys, mount up and we head to the track as they gallop past to starting line. One mile of adrenaline and as they’re off, coming towards us on the huge screens, then a few feet in front and over the line. You can’t help but shout “Come on, Hopkins! Move your bloomin’ arse!”
Move your bloomin’ arse!
It’s a full day too – we were there from 12pm to 7pm and there wasn’t a dull moment. People watching, admiring the sport and those magnificent racehorses.
It’s easy to get there on race days, just change trains at Reading and half an hour more at you at the trackside station.
We’ll definitely be out of the gates first next year.
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