Landmark night for Ripon racecourse

Ripon want to embrace the nation’s love for the sport and override the often stereotypical view that racing is for an elite group or isn’t suitable for families with free admission for accompanied under-18s.

James Hutchinson, Managing Director and Clerk of the Course said: “Racing can be anything you want it to be.

“A relaxed picnic day with family or friends, a special day out to celebrate an occasion or come with tenner in your back pocket for a few races.

“It really is a great day out and can be whatever you make it to be a great experience for all to enjoy.

“Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or have never been, we’re encouraging everyone to come and join the party.”

And the racecourse is offering a chance of winning free entry to the rest of the season by pre-registering on their website.

The gates on Friday open at 3.55pm with the first of seven races starting at 5.55pm.

Free entry will be available all evening, with live music on the bandstand.

Ripon, who are only three meetings into their summer racing season, are not new to unique and whacky initiatives.

They are well known for their big crowd Saturday’s and family fun days alongside offering some of Yorkshire’s most competitive flat turf racing.

Their Traditional Family Day will be held on Sunday May 15 and will see free admission and children’s entertainment for accompanied under-18s.