The prestigious race, which attracts elite runners from across the UK and Ireland, is a cornerstone of the British racing calendar and takes months of meticulous planning. In 2023, it was Ed Bethell who celebrated success when securing his first victory at Group 1 level in the contest, which has been won by household names such as Frankie Dettori and Lester Piggott. The career-defining moment for Ed came when Regional powered home under Lancashire native Callum Rodriguez.
Set in a vast expanse of parkland, Haydock Park is one of the country's busiest racecourses, hosting 30 fixtures annually and combining the best of both flat and jump racing. It is one of just a handful of venues in the country to showcase the highest level of racing across both disciplines, with the Group 1 Sprint Cup on the Flat and the Grade One Betfair Chase over fences. And while running the premier racing venue is a year-round job, for now, all eyes are firmly trained on September 7, when the racecourse’s next feature race champion will be crowned.
This year the racing comes with an added extra, with the opening day of National Racehorse Week falling on Sprint Cup Day. Haydock Park general manager Molly Day says this allows the venue to showcase some of the lesser-known elements of the sport while providing a uniquely detailed insight into the lives and careers of horses after they have retired from racing.
‘So much work goes on behind the scenes before horses, trainers, jockeys and grooms get anywhere near a racecourse. This is a chance for us to give racegoers a glimpse into the care and dedication that goes into looking after the stars of our sport. While Sprint Cup Day is guaranteed to deliver thrilling action on the course, away from the turf we’ll celebrate National Racehorse Week, using it as a platform to honour the remarkable people and animals that make our sport so extraordinary.’
In collaboration with partners such as Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) and Great British Racing (GBR), activities planned for the day, include a parade of retired racehorses, educational talks and a farrier display.
Beyond the top-quality racing and insights into the racing world, the Betfair Sprint Cup is also a renowned social event attended by thousands of racegoers every year. The racecourse becomes awash with vibrant colours and elegant attire. Molly says: ‘Whether you’re looking to join us in hospitality or on a general admission ticket, we can guarantee a day full of good fun and fantastic sport. Racegoers can get up close and personal with runners by visiting our shaded parade ring before retreating to one of our many bars to grab a refreshment and pick out a winner.’
Haydock Park fixtures
September 5-7: The Sprint Cup Celebration
September 28: Summer Season Finale
October 18: Flat Finale
November 23: Betfair Chase Day
To find out more, visit thejockeyclub.co.uk/haydockpark
