October 2024 Morse Code

OCTOBER 2024 MORSE CODE

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WELCOME And what of the season ahead?

It’s been a summer of sunshine, of marginal warmth and plenty, yes, plenty of rain. If the very average holiday weather has a silver lining, it is that the track at Prestbury Park is looking the best I have ever seen it. I t’s an intentionally, little known fact that I 2. Will Constitution Hill make it to the Unibet Champion Hurdle?

have tried to run around the racecourse twice a week since the curtain came down on last season, and these laborious looking jogs usually take place early evening, when everyone has gone home, following a typical sedentary, desk bound day, with my eyes glued to the computer screen. There are no fancy preliminary warm-ups. No parades. I just get on with it, under the burden of whatever weight I am carrying, which is generally speaking, far too much. I tend to travel the course of the National Hunt Chase, (3m and 7 furlongs) at a pace that is pitifully slow but regardless, I consider the opportunity very much a privilege. How lucky am I that I can be out there, running up the famous Cheltenham hill in the shadow of Cleeve Hill where far more illustrious athletes have cantered before? The forced exercise provides me with not only great insight into how the grass is growing and how straight the running rail is, but it gives me about 40 minutes of quality thinking time too, (admittedly sometimes significantly more).

3. Will J.P. McManus’s colours be carried to glory by Mystical Power in the My Pension Expert Arkle?

4. Will a well-weighted French runner turn up to win the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase, now that it is a handicap? 5. Will Grey Dawning bring cheers-a-plenty and give Dan Skelton his first Boodles Gold Cup winner, leading from pillar to post, not seeing a rival?

6. When you read above do you think about setting the odds for each eventuality?

1-3, 3-1, 8-1, 12-1, 20-1

7. Are you excited?

For some reason I am operating at fever pitch right now. I seriously cannot wait. Perhaps it’s all the “thinking time”, perhaps it’s all the work we’ve been putting in to get things right for our racegoers….. but I have the feeling that this season is going to be something special. But then, has there ever been a jump season that isn’t special in more than a thousand different ways.

Come The Showcase at the end of October, I’ll be fit, primed and ready for the season ahead.

And what of the season ahead?

Andre Klein Assistant General Manager, Cheltenham Racecourse

1. Will it be a Cheltenham Festival dominated once again by the Irish?

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WE HEAR YOU… WE ARE MAKING CHANGES

CONGESTION

To improve areas with high levels of congestion, this is what we are doing: • Racegoers will have more course-facing areas to enjoy a drink, easing queues and reducing the need to rush between races. Bar facilities are also being upgraded to give more choice and indoor seating.

VALUE AT THE FESTIVAL

In the climate we live in, a day out at a major sporting event is costly and we don’t want that to be a deterrent to our valued customers at Cheltenham we want everyone here to enjoy a great day and that is good value for money. Here is what is going to happen to achieve value for money for racegoers: • All ticket prices for the 2025 Cheltenham Festival will be frozen at 2024 levels. • Racegoers purchasing a ticket for any day of The Festival will be given a 20 per cent discount on any tickets purchased for other days of the event. * • Groups of six people can save 10 per cent on ticket prices when booking together. Previously this discount was offered to groups of 15 or more. • The Jockey Club and Cheltenham Racecourse have entered into an exciting new partnership with leading sports tour operator Venatour Racing, which will give racegoers the opportunity to purchase discounted packages including tickets, hotels, travel and more in a one-stop shop initiative known as ‘Room To Race’. • Hot and cold meal deals will be offered, giving racegoers the opportunity to save money when buying any hot and soft drinks with food throughout the day and at multiple outlets on course. We’re dedicated to making every aspect of your day at the Cheltenham Festival truly unforgettable for all the right reasons. We're not just planning for next year; we're planning for the next century of exceptional racing experiences, and we’re going to keep listening.

We’re dedicated to making every aspect of your day at the Cheltenham Festival truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.

After each Cheltenham Festival, the team review all aspects and this year was certainly no different. Whilst there are many things to look back on with celebration, for instance, the Great Willie Mullin’s 100th Festival winner, Dan Skelton recording his first Festival four-timer, Galopin Des Champs winning his second Boodles Gold Cup in succession and the Cheltenham Gold Cup Centenary, there were areas that needed improvement.

KEY CHANGES FOR 2025 THE BEST AGAINST THE BEST

increasing prize money over the four days by £115,000, taking the total on offer at the Cheltenham Festival to £4,930,000 in 2025. IMPROVED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CAR PARKING To improve car parking this is what we are doing: • More hard-standing ‘trackway’ will be laid in Cheltenham Racecourse’s grass car parks than ever before. Covering an area the size of 17 football pitches this will aid the arrival and departure of racegoers, especially in the kind of weather conditions experienced this year. • A new park and ride system will be launched within easy access of Cheltenham. In addition, The Jockey Club has partnered with National Express to offer coach travel direct to Cheltenham Racecourse from more than 20 pick-up locations, doubling the number of coaches running to the venue.

• The Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase will be changed from a conditions race to a Limited Handicap. • The race conditions for the Ryanair Mares’ Novices Hurdle will be changed to remove the penalty structure, resulting in a level weights contest. • From 2023 any horse finishing in the first four of a qualifying race for the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle has been eligible for the race at The Festival. From 2025 the race conditions will be altered to provide a guaranteed run in the Pertemps Final for all winners of series qualifiers (provided they are within the weights at declaration stage). • Currently horses must have run at least three times (chases) or four times (hurdles) to be eligible to run in non-novice handicaps at The Festival. From 2025, this will be increased to four chase and five hurdle runs.

Racing is at the heart of The Festival and it is all about competition, the best facing the best. We’ve looked at the race programme data and gathered views from across trainers, owners and the industry to make six key changes to the race programme, all the while ensuring that the welfare of horse and jockey is front and centre.

RACE PROGRAMME CHANGES

• The 2m 4f Turners (Golden Miller) Novices’ Chase will be replaced by a Grade 2 Limited Novice Handicap Chase over the same distance. • The National Hunt Chase will become a Class 2 Novice Handicap Chase (0-145), with amateur rider restrictions for jockeys removed to allow professionals to take part.

To find out more follow the QR code *Discounts will not be applied to Gold Cup day tickets.

In addition to these changes The Jockey Club will be

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Insurance - Nothing to do with Fire or Flood

Business breakfast DO YOU WORK LOCALLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE AND WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS?

O ver the last couple of weeks, I have dedicated quite a few evenings to reading about the intriguingly eccentric racehorse owner, Dorothy Paget. In fact, being honest, it’s become a bit of an obsession. I have a huge racing library at home having collected biographies of racing personalities since I fell in love with the sport many decades ago. My favourite era, 1930s to 1950s, aligns with the time Ms Paget was at her most active, and the vast majority of books published in that time are rarely without a paragraph or two dedicated to Dorothy’s horses or more likely, her quirky and unusual ways. She will be remembered, most appropriately at Cheltenham for owning the unrivalled Golden Miller, winner of five of our Gold Cups, however The Miller was far from the only horse to carry her peacock blue and yellow colours to victory at the Cheltenham Festival. Mont Tremblant and Roman Hackle were two more impressive Gold Cup winners, whilst Insurance, twice, and then Solford and Distel provided her with a tally of four Champion Hurdles. I have been asked on numerous occasions, as I am sure other office colleagues have too, why is the Members Bar called Insurance?

breakfast. The events are proving really popular with over 60 businesses represented at the most recent one staged in September in Mandarin. The next breakfast, a Christmas special, is being hosted at Fergal O’Brien’s racing yard, Ravenswell Farm. For further information contact Imogen.Garrard@thejockeyclub.co.uk Win a woolly hat competition!

You may not be aware yet that the racecourse is now hosting business breakfasts in partnership with Circle2Success, Cheltenham’s leading networking facilitator. The morning starts at 8.30am with a guest speaker from the world of business, usually with a link to horse racing, and is followed by a world class

It is fair to say, the exploits of the horse that lent his name to the room, have been somewhat forgotten. Hopefully now though that is all set to change. You will see when you visit the racecourse this upcoming season, “Insurance”, where many of our Members enjoy unparalleled views of the track, has enjoyed a makeover and the life and times of Dorothy Paget, and her horses, including her dual Champion, Insurance, has been adopted as the theme. I am very much hoping now that I won’t get asked the question too many more times in the future, as the answer is there for all to see on the walls and windows!

The naming of Insurance had nothing to do with a payout from fire or flood.

BEST WATCH Dream Horse Dream Horse is the perfect “feel good” film and has understandably intrigued hundreds of people to take their first step into racehorse ownership. It is a comedy drama,

Winter Warrior Playing Cards Following the success of last year’s GC100 Limited Edition playing cards that were sold to raise proceeds for the racecourse’s GC100 community fund, we have decided to produce a set that features heroes from the history of the Cheltenham Festival. These are our “Winter Warriors”. The high-quality deck includes some of the most popular horses of all time; Tiger Roll, Honeysuckle, Sea Pigeon, Master Minded and many more. Has your favourite made the pack? The cards are £10 and will be available from the gift shop and on-line and once again the profits from sales will be going to good causes.

BEST READ One Jump Ahead

The racecourse gift shop secured impressive sales last year by offering great value for money items that appealed. One of this year’s new product ranges are woolly hats created in colours to replicate famous silks. For your chance to win a woolly hat, name one horse that carried any of these colours to success at last year’s Festival. Simply email: cheltenham.membership@thejockeyclub .co.uk with your answer, name and phone number. All correct entries will go into a draw to win a very special woolly hat!

One book that should sit in every racing fan’s library, should be replaced every year. Reading it almost always contributes to a more fruitful season and if it doesn’t you are doing something wrong, as it provides gem after gem! Since 1993, Mark Howard has published the invaluable annual, One Jump Ahead, where he highlights his top 40 prospects for the season. My recommendation is that you buy it, put the full 40 in your “tracker” and use it as the foundation for the year of punting! It makes it all very easy.

featuring a first grade cast including Owen Teale, Toni Collette and Damien Lewis. The plot is based on the true story of Dream Alliance, winner of the 2009 Welsh Grand National. The horse, trained by Phillip Hobbs, was not just owned, but bred by a syndicate of villagers from Wales, who together purchased Dream Alliance’s dam, Rewbell, for just £300. It is the ultimate rags to riches tale, that we all love to celebrate in horse racing circles, that proves that on the level playing field of a racecourse, anything is possible with a racehorse!

Compiled by Andre Klein

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Our collections are designed for all ages, shapes, and styles, making them a lifetime investment for anyone looking to fuse luxury with durability.

JADE HOLLAND COOPER

“It’s an amazing way to get race day ready,” adds Jade. "You’ll be greeted with a glass of fizz before enjoying personalised extras. Our stylists will also be on hand to help you pre-order and sample pieces, ensuring you look and feel incredible for racing.” Where investment garments for the discerning racegoer are concerned, Jade highlights, “We focus on creating pieces that transcend trends. Our collections are designed for all ages, shapes, and styles, making them a lifetime investment for anyone looking to fuse luxury with durability.” Holland Cooper's unmissable presence in the Shopping Village at The November Meeting and The Festival offers a dynamic environment where racegoers can interact with the brand’s collection, experiencing the craftsmanship and quality of the products firsthand. With a keen eye for design and a passion for tradition, Jade Holland Cooper’s partnership with Cheltenham Racecourse showcases how fashion can truly enhance the on-course experience.

at Cheltenham can enjoy everything from tailored tweed jackets to sleek power suits. Contemporary updates will keep the collection trendy and luxurious. For The Festival, fashion is as important as the racing itself for many. Jade recommends tweed as a core element of any refined outfit. “While we won’t be releasing a specific Cheltenham collection, our classic tweeds, like our iconic Tawny Tweed, will take centre stage.” However, it’s not just about tweeds. Bold could be best? Make an impact with a three-piece suit in statement fabrics, adding a modern twist to power dressing. She emphasises the importance of balancing flair with functionality, especially in the chilly winter months: “Layering is key for Cheltenham, and with the right pieces, during the winter months, you can stay warm without sacrificing style. Personally, I start with a vest and thermals. Footwear is equally as crucial; I opt for a flat boot or a chunky heel, as you're on your feet for much of the day.” A hallmark of Holland Cooper's flourishing partnership with Cheltenham Racecourse is the now firmly established Festival Preview Event at the picturesque Dunkertons Park. It not only provides a preview of the fabulous racing across the five days but also exclusive insights into the season's must-have trends. Similarly, racegoers should take advantage of the Cheltenham Boutique Experience at the two flagship fixtures, The November Meeting and The Festival. This bespoke service offers enthusiasts a chance to curate a wardrobe tailored to their unique preferences.

Our collections are tailored for events where style is paramount, and the racing honours a rich heritage.” Over the years, this partnership has only strengthened, with Holland Cooper becoming a go-to name for those seeking to balance luxury with classic British style. For Jade, the world of National Hunt racing is what truthfully complements the brand’s values of sophistication and practicality. “We take pride in creating timeless pieces that reflect the enduring quality and elevate the elegance of the British countryside.” An emphasis on exceptional quality ensures that racegoers can invest in sophisticated pieces that will stand the test of time. Looking ahead to the upcoming racing season, Jade hints at some exciting new offerings from Holland Cooper. “This season, we’re amplifying British couture further with fresh fabrics, new looks, and standout accessories,” she reveals. The fashion-forward audience Celebrating 15 years of British heritage and luxury fashion alongside the evolution of Holland Cooper’s close association with Cheltenham Racecourse

H olland Cooper was founded by Jade Holland Cooper in 2008. The brand began with a focus on creating luxury British-made tweed clothing, blending traditional British designs with contemporary fashion. Over the last 15 years, Holland Cooper has expanded its offerings to include a wider range of outerwear, casualwear, and accessories while maintaining its emphasis on British craftsmanship and style. As a Fashion Partner of Cheltenham Racecourse, including The Festival and The November Meeting, it’s more than a business venture; it’s a match made in British heritage heaven. Jade explains how the brand’s ethos of combining timeless elegance with tradition aligns seamlessly with an iconic sporting amphitheatre like Cheltenham Racecourse.

As a Cheltenham Member, you’re invited to explore the world of Holland Cooper across the season.

You can register an interest for the Cheltenham Boutique Experience by emailing, boutique@ hollandcooper.com, and you can stay tuned for all the latest on preview evenings by keeping an eye on the Holland Cooper social media channel and their website, hollandcooper.com. Follow Jade for fashion insights and the latest looks for the races on Instagram, @jadehollandcooper.

“The racecourse holds a special place in British sport.

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Horses To Follow for the Season

HARRY COBDEN REGENT’S STROLL

I rode Regent’s Stroll trained by Paul Nicholls, to win two bumpers on only two starts last season, including the Goffs UK Spring Sale Bumper at Newbury. He is a big strong chasing type, that is improving all the time. I think he has a very exciting future ahead of him.

BARRY GERAGHTY PERSONAL AMBITION

Personal Ambition is a horse I recommended to Ben Pauling, after he finished 3rd in an Irish Point-to-Point, 18 months ago. He went on to win three hurdle races for Ben last season, including the Grade 2 Premier Novice Hurdle at Kelso. He is a big horse who will have improved a lot over the summer, both mentally and physically and should develop into a smart chasing prospect this season.

RUBY WALSH BALLYBURN The Willie Mullins trained, Ballyburn needs little introduction. Usually, the best novice hurdler makes the best novice chaser and even with the Turners gone as an option at The Festival, it won’t stop him, whatever trip Willie decides on. There is plenty to look forward to with this lad.

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Who said you can’t mix Business with Pleasure?

• Race Night – Celebrate the end of the season with a relaxed pizza night. • Walk The Course Evening – Experience a behind-the- scenes walk of the course, followed by cheese and wine with Jon Pullin in the Weighing Room. In addition to these exciting events, members will also enjoy: • Business Breakfast Networking Events – Two complimentary invites to the racecourse’s Business Breakfast Networking events, held throughout the year. Garrison Savannah membership benefits • Membership to Cheltenham Racecourse with access to various facilities. • Discounts on hospitality, venue hire, and the gift shop. • Invitations to exclusive overseas racing tours, race naming opportunities, and more. • Complimentary access to feature race days at other Jockey Club racecourses, including the Betfair Chase, Classic Chase, and Grand National Thursday. Membership costs start from £700 (excluding The Festival) or £950 (including The Festival), with a 10% discount on multi-membership purchases. This is an opportunity to bring together your passion for racing and business in one of the most iconic settings in sport. We look forward to welcoming you to the Garrison Savannah Business Club.

We are thrilled to introduce an exciting new corporate membership opportunity at Cheltenham Racecourse: The Garrison Savannah Business Club. This exclusive tier of membership is designed to give local businesses an unparalleled platform to network, promote their brand, and, of course, enjoy the thrill of world-class horse racing at one of the finest racecourses in the world. As a member of the Garrison Savannah Business Club, you will gain access to unique benefits that combine the best of business and racing. From networking events to social gatherings, here’s what you can look forward to: Galopin’ Get Togethers – These bespoke networking events, available throughout the 2024/25 racing season, offer an exclusive way to build connections and strengthen relationships in a relaxed, race-day atmosphere. • November Meeting Finger Buffet – Mingle with fellow members and enjoy a race day finger buffet, accompanied by a celebrity guest speaker. • Festival Trials Day – Trifecta Race Day – Bring along three friends or colleagues for free to experience the thrill of racing. • Festival Preview Night – Join a private meet-and-greet with the Festival Preview Panel and enjoy a free ticket to the Official Preview Night. • Mandarin Breakfast – Enjoy a networking breakfast in The Mandarin, with a guest speaker, while overlooking the track.

THE PREVIEW SHOW The Preview Show is back for the 24/25 season with our regular presenters Aly Vance, Martin Kelly and Hayley Moore. The team are raring to go for the season, so make sure you join the team at the winners’ enclosure 45 minutes before the first race at every meeting. They will be joined by racing greats and special guests, previewing the afternoon’s racing and providing exclusive information, insight, entertainment and hopefully some winners! DO YOU KNOW HOW WE CHOOSE THE MEMBERS’ BADGE COLOURS AT CHELTENHAM EACH SEASON?

Guy Lavender appointed CEO of Cheltenham Racecourse

the Chief Executive of Somerset County Cricket Club, where he enjoyed a six-year tenure.

Guy Lavender will join The Jockey Club at Cheltenham Racecourse in January 2025, working alongside Ian Renton, to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities ahead of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival. Ian Renton will remain involved at Cheltenham in an advisory capacity for a period, which will include the Cheltenham Festival. Guy Lavender is a lifelong racing enthusiast and since 2022 has been at Committee Member at Exeter Racecourse. His working life began in the British Army, where he served for 18 years in the Parachute Regiment, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2006. Before taking up his current position at Marylebone Cricket Club, he was the London 2012 Director for the South West of England and Managing Director of Wave Hub, a £42m renewable energy project in Cornwall. He subsequently returned to sport as

The badge colours are based on winners from the previous season.

Guy Lavender said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the next CEO of Cheltenham Racecourse and very much look forward to playing my part in the long-term success of the Racecourse and The Festival. “There is an excellent platform to build upon and whilst there will be much to learn I have a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in racing through my tenure on the Committee at Exeter Racecourse. “Cheltenham is a great British sporting institution, and I am determined to ensure it goes from strength to strength.”

For the 2025 season we have:

MEMBERSHIP EXCLUDING THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Stage Star, Paddy Power Gold Cup winner 18-28 MEMBERSHIP Captain Guinness, Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase winner FULL MEMBERSHIP Galopin Des Champs, Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup winner

We look forward to welcoming Guy to Cheltenham in 2025.

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CHELTENHAM AND SOUTH WEST RACING CLUB Are you looking for an exciting way to get closer to the action in the world of horse racing? Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the thrill of the sport, the Cheltenham and South West Racing Club offers a unique way to dive into the heart of racing and the privilege of ownership. This is more than just watching races from the sidelines; it's about being part of something special. As a member, you'll gain exclusive access to some of the best events and facilities at Cheltenham, Exeter, Warwick and Wincanton. You'll enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, stable visits, and meet-and-greets with trainers and jockeys, giving you the owner’s view into the fascinating world of racing. What’s more, members can experience the excitement of racehorse ownership without the hefty price tag. The club owns three wonderful horses Charles St (Fergal O’Brien), Flight of Freedom (Emma Lavelle) and Moonlight Artist (Joe Tizzard), so you'll feel the buzz of cheering on your very own horse as it competes. Imagine being in the parade ring with the trainer, discussing tactics, and celebrating in the winner’s enclosure! With the Cheltenham and South West Racing Club, you’re not just a spectator – you’re a part of the team. So, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, amazing days out, and the chance to mix with others who share your passion for racing, this club is the perfect fit.

MEMBERS

INFORMATION

Additional badges can be purchased in advance or on the day. The guest badge allows access to the members areas it does not include racecourse admission. We have limited availability for the members car park for the 4 days of the Cheltenham Festival, please call the team on 01242 537662 to purchase for £50.00.

RECIPROCAL DATES OCTOBER TUESDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2024

smart casual. Men must wear collared shirt and trousers or smart jeans (ties not essential). No shorts, sportswear or trainers. Smart Jeans are accepted. We will continue to work with the other courses to confirm more dates and will update these on the website and arrange printed versions at every race meeting in all members areas. GENERAL INFORMATION Here’s a quick reminder of the dates you can bring a guest into all members areas:

The following seating options are still available:

MARKET RASEN

FRIDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2024

UTTOXETER

SEAT FOR THE SEASON

£420.00

SUNDAY 27TH OCTOBER 2024

AINTREE

SEAT FOR NOVEMBER SATURDAY

£35.00

SEAT FOR ALL 4 DAYS OF THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

£340.00

DECEMBER SUNDAY 29TH DECEMBER 2024

LEOPARDSTOWN

Please note that if you have not purchased a seat for the season, you are not guaranteed access to The Insurance Bar unless you have a reserved seat. Don’t forget the team are always on hand on a race day should you require any assistance. Come and see us in the Hall of Fame or the Customer Relations Hub.

Uttoxeter - Our dress code is smart but casual, no ripped denim or any logo or football/sporting t- shirts.

Friday 25 October 2024 Sunday 17 November 2024 Friday 13 December 2024 Wednesday 16 April 2025 Thursday 17 April 2025 Friday 2 May 2025

Ready to join? The winning line is waiting!

cheltenhamracingclub@thejockeyclub.co.uk 01242 537 668

Market Rasen – Access to all three enclosures. Please use the County Entrance. No access to the Limber Hill Bar. Parking is in the County Car Park. Dress Code is

Alternatively please call us on 01242 537662

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Gloucestershire, GL50 4SH Telephone: 01242 513 014 Ticket hotline: 0344 579 3003 Email: cheltenham@thejockeyclub.co.uk THEJOCKEYCLUB.CO.UK/CHELTENHAM

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