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theracegoer @racegoersclub OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017 /racegoersclub

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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Page 1: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

theracegoer@racegoersclub

O C T O B E R - D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 7

/racegoersclub

Page 2: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Industry Update 3

Cheltenham Festival 2018 4 - 5

Ten to Follow/Racecourse of the Year 6

Members Renewals 7

Ditcheat Jockey Academy 8 - 9

Owners Groups 10 - 11

Silk Series 12 - 13

Summer Events Round-up 14 - 15

Bloodstock News 16

Club Update 17

Events 18 - 19

ContentsOwners Group p.10

Cheltenham Festival p.4

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Page 3: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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Meet the new Racing Director at the Racecourse Association – Andy Clifton

Andy Clifton fell in love with racing after leaving school, gaining first-hand experience of the betting world when he joined colleagues at the local bookmakers in their lunchtime break while on a year’s work experience with his sponsor Austin Rover at its Longbridge factory.

He used to go racing at least twice a week while at university, where he was probably the only student to have the Sporting Life delivered to the halls of residence and chose courses where lectures took place mainly in the morning.

The knowledge of the race programme that this gave him helped him secure his first job in the sport.

Clifton recalls, “I saw an advert in the racing trade papers for deputy race-planning manager at the Jockey Club. The ad made it sound as if you needed to be 30 years old and a computer expert. Well, I was 22 and just about knew how to turn on a computer, but I thought I’d apply anyway.

“I got an interview and I remember the killer question was, ‘Your four-year-old hurdler has just won the Triumph and you’re going to campaign him towards the Champion Hurdle, what would your programme be?’ I said you’d probably go for the Gerry Feilden first, because it’s open only to four- and five-year-olds, and then the obvious races.

“Apparently, everyone else they interviewed, who were 30-year-old computer experts, asked, ‘What’s the Triumph Hurdle?’ So, it was more by luck than judgement that I got taken on.”

Clifton’s responsibilities soon expanded to become secretary of the newly-formed Jump Pattern Committee and also included a spell on administrative work for the European Pattern Committee – both of which were later to throw up examples of racing’s ‘small world’ environment.

In 1997 he succeeded Simon Clare as PR manager at Ladbrokes, where he stayed for five years, followed by two years as PR director at the Tote and a similar spell as managing director of Favourites Racing, before he answered a call from Edward Gillespie to take up a new post as communications manager at Cheltenham.

After six years at Cheltenham, the call came from Hong Kong, where Clifton says: “I was flattered to be approached and had a brilliant year there, made many contacts, learned a lot and got a different perspective on several different aspects of the racing industry.”

For personal reasons he returned to the UK after a year, just as Newbury chief executive Julian Thick was reorganising the management team and looking to fill the new role of head of communications. Now, Clifton has moved from the specific to the general, with race planning and programming for all RCA members as his brief.

“Several things attracted me to the RCA job,” he says. “There aren’t many people who’ve done the variety of jobs in racing and betting as I have, or have the contacts in both areas whose brains I can pick, which gives me the opportunity to take a rounded view of the industry.

“It felt like a great opportunity at the right time to take a broader industrywide role. What’s more, I can hit the ground running, so there’s lots of aspects that makes this the perfect job.”

IndustryUpdate

Page 4: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

2018 Cheltenham Festival MarqueeCheltenhamFestival

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The Racegoers Club marquee at the Cheltenham Festival is always a hugely popular event with over 200 members and guests visiting us each day. As in previous years, we will have a marquee for every day of the Cheltenham Festival.Our marquee is situated in the tented village, with easy access to all facilities and just a short walk from the paddock and course viewing areas. Our facility includes:

• Special guest speaker running through the

card each morning

• Private cash bar serving hot & cold food

• Private Tote kiosk

• Screens showing all the action from

Cheltenham

• A seat for the day

• A quiz with exclusive prizes

We know that sharing the Cheltenham experience with family and friends is very important. Each member can bring up to five guests (six tickets total). Joint members may reserve 10 guest tickets (12 total).

Champion’s DayChampion HurdleTuesday 13 March

£39 members, £47 guests

The famous Cheltenham roar awaits on day one of The Festival. As the tapes rise for the opening race, horseman and racegoers alike rejoice as the wait is over. The showpiece of the first day is the Champion Hurdle, where Britain and Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Arkle Chase where the best two mile novice Hurdlers and Chasers are on display. Last year Racegoers Club Ambassador, Richard Hoiles, gave members a superb insight for The Festival and we will be hoping for much of the same again.

Ladies DayQueen Mother Champion ChaseWednesday 14 March

£36 members, £43 guests

After the excitement of the first day of The Festival, the glamour comes to town for Ladies Day and the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Start the day with a glass of champagne in our exclusive marquee, then enjoy the spectacle of the best two mile chasers taking each other on. Special Tiara won the 2017 renewal of the Queen Mother Champion Chase in emphatic style and gave Noel Fehily his second Championship Race win in two days. Also on the card there is the Baring Bingham Novices’ Hurdle which has been previously won by stars such as Simonsig, Faugheen and Yorkhill.

Early Bird Cheltenham Special Offer:Get all four days for a special price of £135 (usually £150) when you book before Christmas*

*Available for Members only and limited to the first 40 members - offer ends 15 December 2017

Page 5: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

2018 Cheltenham Festival Marquee

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CheltenhamFestival

St. Patrick’s ThursdayStayers HurdleThursday 15 March

£36 members, £43 guests

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Day Three of The Festival. It is a typically Irish affair with Guinness flowing all around the racecourse plus racegoers are treated to Irish Music throughout the day. As well as a superb atmosphere, the racing is excellent with the JLT Novices’ Chase, The Stayers Hurdle and the Ryanair Steeplechase. Last year St. Patrick’s day saw the barren run for Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh end as they chalked up a four-timer, the highlight being the feature race with Nichols Canyon. Come join us for a Guinness and some great racing on St Patrick's Day!

Gold Cup DayGold Cup Steeple ChaseFriday 16 March

£39 members, £47 guests

The Festival closes with the showpiece of the week, the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The Gold Cup is one of the most sought after titles in racing and always provides some enthralling racing. It is a race associated with the elite of the sport and nothing can rival the Cheltenham roar as the horses charge up the famous hill. The 2017 renewal was won in emphatic fashion by Sizing John giving Robbie Power and Jessica Harrington their first Gold Cup success. Come and join us for the blue riband event of the jumping calendar with a special guest speaker.

Important Information

Access to the marquee requires Club Enclosure admission, which must be purchased directly from Cheltenham Racecourse.

Please contact us in advance if you require disabled or easy access so that we can make arrangements. If you would like to bring children please also contact us prior to the event due to capacity requirements.

How to book

Marquee Tickets will be available to purchase from 25 October at 10am.

Online - go to www.racegoersclub.co.uk/racecourse-events and select the days you wish to attend.

Post - fill out the form on page 20 and return to: The Racegoers Club, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HX

Early Bird Cheltenham Special Offer:Get all four days for a special price of £135 (usually £150) when you book before Christmas*

*Available for Members only and limited to the first 40 members - offer ends 15 December 2017

Page 6: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Ten to Follow Competition

TentoFollow

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Adrian Judd still has his neck in front

The Flat season is coming to a close and there have been some super stars this year. Enable has proved unstoppable over the longer distances and truly deserved her Arc win. Since toppling Carravaggio in the July Cup, Harry Angel has proven to be the star sprinter with a brilliant performance on heavy ground in the Sprint Cup at Haydock.

Adrian Judd is still out in front, but over the last few months his lead has been slowly ebbed away. John Williams has been creeping into contention and who knows what will happen on Champions Day when every race has bonus points attached. It could be all change after the 21 October.

Don’t forget to sign up to the Ten to Follow Jumps Competition starting on Friday 17 November, using the Booking Form on the back page. Closing date for entries is Wednesday 15 November.

Racecourse of the YearCast your vote by 31 December 2017

It’s the time of year when we ask members to vote on their favourite British Racecourse. Last year it was all change as York took the title after 12 years of Cheltenham dominance. There were new faces in the regional awards as Wolverhampton and Chelmsford scooped the best small racecourses in the midlands and south respectively.

Every course has its own charm and it is up to you to decide which courses deserve the coveted Racegoers Club Regional and National awards. To cast your vote, please log into the Members Area and click on the Racecourse of the Year tab. When voting please consider all aspects of a race day: viewing experience, facilities, food & beverage, atmosphere, value for money.

Based on the scores, an overall Racegoers Club Champion will be announced and racecourses will be awarded ‘Accolades’ in each category.

Please visit our website today to register your votes for your favourite racecourses in 2017. Alternatively, write to us at: The Racegoers Club, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HX, to request a voting form.

Page 7: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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2018 Membership RenewalIt’s that time of year again! It’s been a great year for the Club with Chilly Miss returning to action and a new ownership opportunity starting with Jonjo O’Neill. As well as this we have had more events than ever in 2017, including The Cheltenham Festival and Glorious Goodwood.

2018 is shaping to be another landmark year as we celebrate the Club’s 50th Anniversary. We have complimentary entry confirmed for 49 fixtures through the concessions scheme and several celebratory events planned.

Renew your membership for 2018

for just £35 for an individual membership or £55 for a joint membership. There are three easy ways to renew your membership: direct debit, online or via post.

Renew your membership by 1 December 2017 for guaranteed delivery before 1 January 2018.

MembersRenewals

2018 Club Membership

Direct DebitMembers who pay by direct debit will be entitled to a £5 discount on their membership, making an individual membership just £30 or a joint membership just £50. If you would like to pay via direct debit, please complete the enclosed sheet and return before 14 November 2017.

Please note: If you have already signed up to pay your renewal by direct debit, your payment will be taken 1 December 2017. We will be sending a letter to all members who have already returned their direct debit forms to confirm this.

OnlineTo renew online, log in to your account page on our website and select the membership type you require. As an added bonus, we are offering all members who renew online before 14 November 2017 a £5 discount on their membership. Simply enter the voucher code RENEW18 during the checkout process to receive the £5 discount on your membership.

If you have not registered your email with us, please call us on 01344 625912 and we will activate your online account for you.

Post Fill out the form below including your card details or cheque, cut out the form and send it to:

The Racegoers Club, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HXor email [email protected]

Last order date for guaranteed delivery before 1 January is 1 December

Rewards4RacingYou will also receive 500 R4R points for an individual membership, worth £5, or 100 points for a joint membership worth £10, when you renew your Racegoers Club membership. Please note: Rewards 4 Racing will only be able to allocate your points if we have a valid email address for you. Points can be spent with any eligible racecourse; for full details and terms please visit rewards4racing.com.

We send regular communications including the magazine and email updates on the latest events and stable visits. To ensure you don’t miss out, please confirm that you are happy to receive communications by ticking these boxes. Please note: we will only use your details for Racegoers Club communications and marketing and will not sell or pass on your details to any third parties. Post Email Text Phone If you would like to receive the Rewards4Racing points offer, please tick this box /here

Page 8: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Ditcheat Jockey Academy Ditcheat

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The Ditcheat Jockey Academy was founded by Harry Derham and Aodhagan Conlon. Harry is now embarking on his second season as assistant trainer for Paul Nicholls. Formally a conditional jockey for Paul, he enjoyed extensive success for the yard. Harry decided a role in the yard would be more to his liking and has not looked back since. Although not riding competitively Harry still loves riding out and being involved with the horses from day to day. He is often trying to find ways to engage the work force, helping organise schemes like employee of the month and the Ditcheat jockeys academy. We asked Harry for some insight into the academy.

How long has the academy been running? How many jockeys are on the programme?

“It was established in late August, the idea started with me and Aodhagan Conlon. We had both been pro jockeys at the same time and had the same length of career. He now does a psychology degree at the University of the West of England and rides out when he can whereas I have taken up a role as Paul’s Assistant.

There are 11 jockeys on the programme that are all attached to Paul’s yard and we are trying to teach them the life of a jockey but more importantly about life in general outside of the saddle.”

What were your motivations for setting up the academy?

“I read Alex Ferguson’s book over the summer and the main thing emphasised was always investing in the future. There is a lot of young talent in the yard who are worth investing in.”

How long does it take to complete the programme?

“The programme will run until April with 20 sessions of education.”

What areas are covered in the training programme?

“There is a varied amount of sessions ranging from psychology, cooking, fitness, yoga to owner relationships. We are getting various outside speakers including the Director of Sport at UWE. They are clearly all talented riders but we want to create well rounded individuals that will succeed in any aspect of life – not just racing. Every other sport has a great support structure for young people, whether it be football, rugby or cricket. These people leave school early for the love of riding a horse and we need to help them to get into the mindset of a professional athlete.”

What is the recruitment process for the academy?

“There isn’t a specific process, anyone can join that works at Paul’s yard. I always say the same thing to any young rider, anyone can ride but it takes much more than that to be a professional jockey. If you work hard, be smart, punctual and loyal, you will get the rewards at Paul’s.”

What role does pony racing play in the selection and training process?

“Only a very small part – obviously pony racing is a great start and they have a bigger advantage because of the experience but we give all riders an equal chance.”

Page 9: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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Ditcheat

Anything else you would like to say about the academy?

“I want to emphasise that this is not being done for personal gain, we were both jockeys for a short-time and it’s a tough career. I truly believe these people are worth investing in and hopefully we don’t just make them better jockeys but better humans in the process.”

We also asked conditional jockey Stan Sheppard about the academy and how it is helping him to develop.

What are the main benefits of the programme?

“It is more individual and specific to certain scenarios. You have plenty of practise at all of the different aspects of being a jockey, from talking to owners to knowing how to eat healthily.”

What education sessions are you most forward to?

“I am mostly looking forward spending two hours with A.P McCoy in a few weeks. Being able to pick the brains of the greatest jockey of all time, isn't a chance to be sniffed at. Many people would

do a lot to get that chance. To be honest we've been kept slightly in the dark about what all the sessions involve exactly. All we know is that we will have some great chances to learn from some inspirational people. If we approach each session in the right mind set they can only improve us.”

Who needs the cooking class most desperately?

“Sean Bowen. He can just about cook chicken nuggets and chips and that is if he can't be bothered to drive to the chip shop to get them.”

Should the industry be encouraged to increase the support network for conditional/apprentice jockeys over and above that already provided?

“I feel that the industry does a lot, but with all things in life there is always room for improvement no matter how good things seem. There is already a lot of help out there for young jockeys, such as jockey coaches and plenty of time spent at the British Racing School. As Harry told me when I joined Paul’s, you get out what you put in so it's up to the young jockeys to try harder than the person next to them.”

How has pony racing made it easier to develop as a jockey?

“Pony racing is a great introduction to the sport, especially in the later years when it becomes more competitive. It is less about going flat out from A to B and more about riding a race and everyone is a lot more switched on. The best thing about pony racing is how it prepares you for other races in the future, from getting a good start to weighing in and the different situations that arise, not just in the race but around the build up to it as well.”

Page 10: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Encouraging comback for Club favourite Chilly Miss

OwnersGroups

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Malcolm Jefferson Malton

The jumps season is upon us and the quality of action is improving on the track as the trainers take the wraps of some of their stable stars with plenty of eyes already looking towards those four days in March at Cheltenham.

This season we have some exciting Jumps Ownership Groups to get involved in with two top trainers.

In the north we have once again teamed up with Malcolm Jefferson in his Malton yard and we have two horses in our latest group that should offer plenty of excitement throughout the year.

Chilly Miss has already ran twice since coming back into training in July finishing fourth and then third at Southwell both times overhurdles. Ideally needing good

ground, she’s likely to have a couple more runs ahead of a winter break before we bring her in for the spring where a novice chasing campaign is on the cards.

The second horse included in the total cost of £475 for the season is Sammamish - a beautiful four year old Oscar filly out of a mare called Issaquah who finished second twice at the Aintree Festival and third in a Swinton hurdle. A stunning looker, Sammamish will make her debut in November and will run in bumpers this season.

Assistant Trainer Ruth Jefferson said: “We’d like to start her off in a Mares bumper as they tend to be run at a more sensible pace and be a bit less competitive so it makes sense to do that. She shows a bit at home without being the quickest and looks to have a really good, competitive attitude, which is all you can ask at this stage.

Share price:only

£475

Buy your share at racegoersclub.co.uk/ownership

fill out the form on the back page of the magazine, give us a call on 01344 625912 or contact [email protected]

The Racegoers Club offers a greatopportunity to take your first stepsinto racehorse ownership. We aim toprovide groups that are large enough to be affordable but small enough to feel friendly and personal with renowned trainers in the industry.Benefits include:• Owners badges when your

horse races (allocated by ballot as available)

• All costs for the 2017/18 Jumps season with nothing else to pay

• A share of any surplus at the end of the owners group will be distributed in line with the owners group rules

• Meet the trainer and watch your horse on the gallops

• Regular training updates• Up to three private owners

group stable visits to top trainers per season

• Priority to renew for the 2018/19 Jumps season

Chilly Miss racing at Southwell

Page 11: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

The Club reunites with Jonjo O’Neill

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Jonjo O’NeillGloucestershire For the first time since the late 1980s we have joined forces with Jonjo O’Neill and his team at Jackdaws Castle. We’ve found a really exciting young horse to go into training with Jonjo as well - Marmalade Mist.

A four-year-old filly by Stowaway and out of a mare called Shean Rose, she is a half sister to the Grade One winner Blow By Blow and she is a big, striking chestnut filly with plenty of potential. With lots to learn she will begin this season in bumpers.

Our lovely filly is settling in really well at Jackdaws Castle having arrived last month. She is working on the five furlong gallop as the next stage of her education, being ridden by conditional jockey Jack Savage.

Jonjo is really pleased with how she is coping with the experience.

Jonjo O’Neill said, “She has plenty of character but that’s what you want and she’s a smashing filly. You’d be very hopeful the way she moves and she’s taken it all in well so far.

“You can’t ask them to do too much when they’re at this stage as they’ll just back off so we’ll have to be patient as with all the young horses. I know Martin Jones thought a lot of her and she looks like she’s got the physical ability it’s just whether she’ll have it mentally which can be the challenge.”

OwnersGroups

Share price:

Marmalade Mist arrived at Jackdaws Castle in October

The ExperienceThe Racegoers Club has had 50years of experience giving members the thrill of thoroughbred racehorse ownership. By leasing our horses we are able to offer well bred horses placed with top trainers, at a fraction of the cost normally associated with ownership.

The Owners Groups have a dedicated Manager who will keepyou updated with news of the horse via email, social media & post. Regular updates on progress of the horse, running plans and race entries mean you always have the latest insight from the trainers and jockeys.

Owners will be talked through thehorses training program and get abehind-the-scenes look at some ofthe superb training facilities, seeing the care and attention that goes into preparing a thoroughbred for racing.

The Club has had excellent successover the years, with four RoyalAscot runners and a 2000 Guineascontender. Our strike rate for won or placed horses is 32%, with 15%winners. We will never ask ourmembers for additional funds, allcosts are covered by one initial feefor a single season.

Buy your share at racegoersclub.co.uk/ownership£295

Page 12: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Megan Nicholls Wins The Silk Series

SilkSeries

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In this edition of The Racegoer, we’ve been really pleased to bring you news about initiatives that have been set up to support British jockeys. One really interesting initiative that was launched this summer was Arena Racing Company’s Silk Series, which looked to promote the skills and achievements of female jockeys working in British racing.

Recent research has shown that whilst nearly seventy percent of the intake to the two jockey training centres (British Racing School in Newmarket and Northern Racing College in Doncaster) are women, very few go on to successful careers as professional jockeys.

This research from Oxford Brookes University suggested that reasons for this drop off included the lack of opportunities for young female jockeys alongside a misconception from some as to their relative talent in the saddle.

As such, The Silk Series was developed by ARC as a new series of races exclusively for female jockeys to take place across the group’s Ladies Days this summer. The Silk Series consisted of nine races in total each worth £10,000, with the £20,000 Final taking place at Doncaster Racecourse on DFS Ladies Day on Thursday 14 September 2017, during the William Hill St Leger Festival.

Jockeys were allocated points depending on their finishing position in each race with the overall winner awarded the Tufnell Trophy at Doncaster. The trophy is named in memory of Meriel Tufnell

MBE, the winner of the first race for female jockeys under Jockey Club rules, the Goya Stakes at Kempton Park May 6, 1972. The Tufnell Trophy is an original piece, in silver, kindly designed and donated by Inkerman.

Meriel died from cancer in October 2002, having raised large sums of money for children’s cancer charity Sparks. Her brother, Wynne Tufnell, was proud to present the overall winner of The Silk Series with the Tufnell Trophy at Doncaster.

Page 13: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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SilkSeries

Apprentice jockey, Hollie Doyle, has been the official ambassador for The Silk Series over the course of the summer. She has featured in the marketing and in media coverage of The Silk Series, as well as writing a blog on her life as an apprentice jockey which you can still read on www.thesilkseries.com.

Hollie has enjoyed a breakout season in 2017, and really grasped the opportunities offered to her by boss Richard Hannon throughout the summer. Hollie has ridden just shy of fifty winners to date this season, including her first win at Glorious Goodwood on Billesdon Bess. Only a fortnight later, she rode her first Listed winner on the same horse at Salisbury.

On The Silk Series, Hollie said, “The Silk Series has been a wonderful opportunity for female jockeys to showcase their talents to a wide audience. In the long run, I think it will help to encourage owners and trainers to use female jockeys more often on their horses.”

The Silk Series races proved popular throughout the summer and offered a unique racing highlight to nine Ladies Days. Over 35 different jockeys; amateurs, apprentices and professionals took part in The Silk Series, which saw a first ever career winner for Izzie Francis at Lingfield Park, a winner at Newcastle twenty years to the day since her first (at the same venue) for Carol Bartley and the shock return from retirement for Hayley Turner who once again teamed up with Michael Bell to win at Great Yarmouth.

The inaugural winner of The Silk Series, however, was apprentice Megan Nicholls, who put in a string of top performances in the latter half of the competition to take the crown. These included winning rides on Honiara at Brighton for Paul Cole and Canberra Cliffs for Don Cantillon at Bath along with a strong third on the unfancied Paddy Power for Richard Fahey in the Doncaster Final, which clinched her the title.

Megan was complimentary about The Silk Series throughout the summer, commenting after her Brighton win, “It’s been fantastic to be able to get more opportunities to ride over the summer and has been really popular. The Silk Series has given us girls a chance to get together more, as well as riding for trainers who we might not usually get an opportunity to, which is really helpful professionally”.

As well as helping to raise the profile of female jockeys in Britain, The Silk Series has been helping to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Research UK. 75 pence from every ticket sold

to an ARC Ladies Days was donated to Cancer Research UK.

The Silk Series has been a fantastic success in its first season and has been proud to help so many female jockeys with some fresh opportunities over the summer. It has added some extra racing intrigue to Ladies’ Days and has raised significant funds for an excellent charity. Congratulations from everyone in the Racegoers Club to Megan and all the ladies who took part, and we very much look forward to seeing The Silk Series back in 2018!

Page 14: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Summer Events Round-upEventsUpdate

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We kicked off the summer by taking a visit to Whitsbury Manor Stud. Over 30 members made the trip at the beginning of June to see star stallions including Adaay, Due Diligence, Showcasing and Swiss Spirit. Stud Director Ed Harper showed us around and introduced us to one very familiar face and some new ones.

The Racegoers Club has leased four fillies from Whitsbury and all have won in their 3-year-old racing career. Our first filly and old club favourite Clouds Rest had returned to Whitsbury Manor since running her last race in 2015 and become a mother to a filly by Swiss Spirit. Clouds Rest was a great horse to be involved with as she won three races and was placed twice for her owners, as well as running in the 2014 Queen Mary at Royal Ascot.

Whitsbury Stud

In the middle of summer there are not many better places to be than Royal Windsor Racecourse. Surrounded by the beautiful woodland and river it is picturesque place to be. Windsor provided members with a box with a superb view of all the racecourse and overlooking the finish line during the middle leg of their Best of British Festival. Not only were members treated to a great days racing but after racing there was a live performance from Tony Hadley singing hits such as Gold, True and Be Free With Your Love.

Royal Windsor

Goodwood

Our flagship event of the summer is the Saturday of the Qatar Goodwood Festival in which RGC members can enjoy one of the seasons most prestigious racedays in style. Our private boxes had a balcony offering great views of the track and stunning views across the Downs. Thankfully the weather had relented and it turned out to be a fabulous day of racing. In the Sprint Cup punters were rewarded for taking a leap of faith with Scorching Heat as he blitzed the field in the first of the day. In the feature race, the Stewards Cup, Dean Ivory’s shrewd booking of Frankie Detorri payed off as Lancelot Du Lac came home a 25-1 winner.

Page 15: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

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EventsUpdate

It been a glorious summer of RGC events

A brand-new event to the RGC summer calendar was the Beverley Racecourse Restaurant Package. Racegoers were treated to a Seafood and Deli platter in the Paddock Bar with great views of the Parade Ring.

As well as a highly competitive eight racecard, there was the RB Save the Children Camel Derby which was a great spectacle for all. Beverley delivered a wonderful day and looked after our members excellently. We will definitely be heading back there again soon.

Beverley

Epsom Downs - August Bank Holiday

Over 120 members enjoyed a trip to Epsom Downs over the August Bank Holiday, which coincided with the Epsom trainers Open Day. The Racegoers Club where given a 25% discount on entry to the Epsom trainers Open Day which allowed them to go and visit stars such as St. Leger winner Harbour Law before a great days racing. During the day we held a tipping competition with some exclusive prizes. Due to the vast number of RGC visitors we were moved to the Lazarus Suite which gave members brilliant views of the racecourse as well as easy access to the betting and parade rings.

York

There was a special relaxed feel about York when we rounded off the summer with the only Sunday raceday in York’s calendar. Racegoers were treated to a delightful informal buffet with a complimentary welcome drink and racecard.

It was the perfect way to round off the Kids Go Free summer campaign on this brilliant family raceday. As well as some enthralling handicaps for members to get stuck into, there was the Charles Owen Pony Racing Series final, where members may have seen a future champion jockey.

Page 16: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

Clouds Rest BrotherCreates Interest in the Sales Ring

BloodstockNews

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The sales season is in full swing and Tattersalls has taken centre stage throughout the month of October with some big money changing hands. Whenever Godolphin and Coolmore go head to head in the sales ring there is likely to be fireworks and we saw that in Book One with the hammer coming down at more than £4m for the Galileo and Dank filly.

As well as the big money there has been plenty of interest for the Racegoers Club with progeny and closely related horses that have previously run in our colours going through the ring.

Most notably there was a full brother to Clouds Rest who appeared in Book Two on 10 October. Sold by Whitsbury Manor Stud, the bay colt

by Showcasing and out of Ahwahnee (pictured below) looks capable of showing all the speed that Clouds Rest did as she won three times for us and also ran in the 2014 Queen Mary.

Sold for £85,000 to David O’Meara we will watch with interest on how his career shapes up.

Another interesting lot came in Book One where a colt by Kingman and out Shimmering Surf was sold by Hillwood Stud. The colt’s second second dam – Sun On The Sea – ran in the colours of the Racegoers Club, finishing fourth in the 2003 Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot trained by Brian Meehan. The colt went unsold in the ring at £140,000 and so we will keep an eye out on where he ends up.

Page 17: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

17

ClubUpdate

Annual General Meeting

Diaries & CalendarsGet ready for 2018 with the Racegoers Club. The Club’s personalised padded diaries, featuring our logo on the front cover contain everything from road maps to all major sporting events. These pocket size diaries are great for the racegoer constantly on the move – you will never miss a fixture again. They are priced at £7.50 each including postage.

The A4 calendar features all of the equine stars of the Flat and National Hunt sphere from 2017. The calendars have lots of space for planning your 2018 Racegoers Club events and will make the perfect Christmas present. They are priced at £9.50 each including postage.

To order, please fill out the order form on the back page. Alternatively, you can purchase from our website at www.racegoersclub.co.uk/merchandise.

Diaries will be despatched at the beginning of December.Calendars will be despatched at the beginning of November.

The AGM will take place in Marquee 7 in the Tented Village starting at 11.10am. We expect the meeting to finish no later than 12 midday, provided all business is concluded.

All members are welcome to attend. We hope to see you there.

Please note: if you wish to enjoy the comfort of the marquee after the AGM you will need to purchase a Racegoers Club marquee pass. There are a limited number of passes remaining which can be purchased from our website or via the booking form on the back page. Any members without a pass after the AGM will be unable to remain.

Join us at the Racegoers Club AGM before racing at Cheltenham on Saturday 18 November 2017

Page 18: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

ClubEvents

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Doncaster

Sandown Park

Jamie Snowden & Cheltenham

Ascot

£40 guests welcome

The flat season draws to a close with the Betfred November Handicap. Come and join us for a fantastic days racing from the comfort of our own private box with a hot buffet lunch. The package includes:• Racecourse entry• Hot buffet lunch• Private cash bar

• Racecard

£50 guests welcome

Start the festive season in style in our private course viewing box. A great place to warm up from the winter cold with a comfy seat. This package includes: • Premier Enclosure admission • Reserved seat for the day• Cash bar• Racecard & Tote betting facility

£36 guests welcome

We have an exciting opportunity to visit Jamie’s training yard in Lambourn. He bought his current yard in 2011. Knighton Combe, the first runner from his new quarters, landed the Summer National, and Ixora was his first Cheltenham winner. Come join us afterwards at our private facility on BetVictor Gold Cup day, giving you a base for the day to enjoy some top class National Hunt racing.

November Handicap Private SuiteSaturday 11 November

Tingle Creek Private SuiteSaturday 9 December

Stable Visit - Saturday 18 November

Ladbroke Hurdle LogesSaturday 23 December

£37 guests welcome

Enjoy all the action of Ascot’s most valuable day of jumps racing from the loges, where you will be ideally placed to enjoy the action. This package includes:• Grandstand admission• Seat in private viewing ‘loges’• Bandstand Restaurant voucher for a hot meal &

drink (beer/wine)• £2 betting voucher & racecard

Page 19: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

ClubEvents

19Please use back page booking form or go to www.racegoersclub.co.uk/events

Neil Mulholland

Gary Moore

Newbury

Fontwell Park

£10 guests welcome

Neil started out his racing career by spending six years working for Aidan O’Brien. He started his riding career there where he notched up 120 winners. In 2008 he gave up the saddle and became a trainer. Last year he trained 72 winners over both codes. Come join us a Neil’s Conkwell Grange Racing Stables to see such stars as Cheltenham Festival winner The Druids Nephew.

£10 guests welcome

Gary Moore started as a National Hunt jockey with over 200 career wins. He retired from the saddle in the early 1990s and went on to train. His training career started in Epsom where he trained for five years before taking over from his father, Charlie, in Brighton. Gary now trains at Cisswood Racing Stables in Lower Beeding set

in 180 acres of beautiful countryside and woodland.

£70 guests welcome

Join us for one of Newbury’s Premier Jumps meeting at the racecourse for the Game Spirit Hurdle. As well as a high class card this package includes:• Grandstand admission & racecard• Three course lunch• Tipster talk

• Reserved seat for the day

£35 guests welcome

Join us for the highlight of the season at Fontwell for the Game Spirit Hurdle. As well as a some top class racing this package includes:• Grandstand admission• Hospitality Badge• Racecard

• Reserved seat for the day

Stable VisitThursday 18 January

Stable VisitSunday 25 February

Game Spirit Restaurant PackageSaturday 10 February

National Spirit Hurdle Private SuiteSunday 25 February

Page 20: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017Ireland’s finest two mile hurdlers go head to head. In 2017, Buveur D’Air took the honours for JP McManus and Nicky Henderson. Champion’s Day also features

BookingForms

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Name:

Contact Number:

Name:

Contact Number:

Email:

Address:

Postcode:

Total Amount: £

Card Number:

Security Code:

Expiry Date: /

Send completed forms to:Racegoers Club, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7HX. Cheques made payable to The Racegoers Club.

*Please confirm you accept the T&Cs of the owners groups, available online at www.racegoersclub.co.uk/racehorse-ownership/ownership-group-rules.

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1.

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1.

6.

Price Quantity Total

6.

6.

6.

6.

6.

2.

Doncaster Private Suite

Jamie Snowden Stable Visit

Cheltenham November MarqueeJamie Snowden & Cheltenham Marquee

Sandown Park Private Suite

Ascot Private Loge

Neil Mulholland Stable Visit

Newbury Restaurant Package

Gary Moore Stable Visit

Fontwell Park Private Suite

Cheltenham Festival Tuesday

Cheltenham Festival Wednesday

Cheltenham Festival Thursday

Cheltenham Festival Friday

Cheltenham Festival 4 Day PassMalcolm Jefferson Owners Group

Total

2.

2.

2.

2.

2.

7.

£40

£10

£29

£36

£50

£37

£10

£70

£10

£35

£39/£47

£36/£43

£36/£43

£39/£47

£135

£475

£

7.

7.

7.

7.

7.

3.

3.

3.

3.

3.

3.

8.

8.

8.

8.

8.

8.

4.

4.

4.

4.

4.

4.

9.

9.

9.

9.

9.

9.

5.

5.

5.

5.

5.

5.

10.

10.

10.

10.

10.

10.

Postcode:

Cheque Enclosed? Yes No

Jonjo O’Neill Owners Group £295

Diary £7.50

Calendar £9.50