Welcome

Good afternoon and a warm welcome to Newbury Racecourse for BetVictor Hungerford Day, featuring some topquality action, followed by Olly Murs who is returning to the Party in the Paddock stage.

This is our first major Saturday at full capacity after a long year, and we are so pleased to see everyone back. Whilst no social distancing will be enforced, we ask all racegoers to be respectful of each other throughout the day. It is going to be a lovely warm day, so tap water is freely available at all bars. Named after the local Berkshire town, today’s feature race is the Group 2 BetVictor Hungerford Stakes. Established in 1949, it was initially run over a mile and a half, before becoming one of the most prestigious 7-furlong races in the Flat calendar. Won last year by subsequent Group 1 winner Dream of Dreams, this year’s line up looks just as exciting. We are also delighted to bring back the Go Racing Green Quiet Zone, which has been introduced across various racecourse’s by Debbie Matthews, to support better mental health awareness within the race-going community. As part of the initiative, any of today’s racegoers experiencing social anxiety will find the dedicated Quiet Zone behind the paddock. This is an alcohol-free area and will have trained staff available to offer support if required. My thanks go to our sponsors, BetVictor, Academy Insurance, Denford Stud, Mettal UK as well as Education for Everyone, who will be running a bucket collection on exit. With the relaxation of restrictions, we are looking forward to the rest of the summer here at Newbury. Rick Astley will be here on Saturday 18 September, performing live after racing on Dubai Duty Free International Saturday, where we will also be celebrating National Racehorse Week. Advanced saver ends on 31 August, with tickets selling fast, so make sure you get yours at the best price possible! Thank you for choosing to spend today with us, and I hope you have an enjoyable and profitable time, and that we will see you again very soon.

Julian Thick

Chief Executive