All you need to know as Betfair Chase 2024 to arrive at Haydock Park

What is the Betfair Chase?

Staged over a distance of three miles one furlong, the Betfair Chase is the first Grade One Chase of the new jumps season and is a race that attracts some of the best equine athletes from across the country and beyond.

It is the highlight of the jump racing season at Haydock Park, and an event that the team at the racecourse spend months preparing for.

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Many past winners have gone on to win the biggest race of them all – the Cheltenham Boodles Gold Cup, making The Betfair Chase the perfect starting point for many prospective stars at this time of year.

Arguably the most famous winner of the race was the four-time champion Kauto Star (2006, 2007, 2009, 2011), with the Paul Nicholls-trained gelding also winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup twice in his illustrious career.

This year’s renewal will be the 20th running of the race, with nine horses declared to take part.

When is it?

Saturday, November 23, 2024.

Gates open at 10.05am, with the first race at 12.05pm.

County Stand tickets have already sold out, with Grandstand and Paddock tickets still available to buy online (from £22.50). They will also be available on the gates (£33).

Haydock Park (Image: Grossick Racing Photography)

Strong international line-up to compete

This year's race will feature a strong international lineup. French contender Gold Tweet, trained by Gabriel Leenders, will face-off against the leading British hopeful, Grey Dawning, trained by Dan Skelton.

Additionally, Willie Mullins enters his first Betfair Chase runner, Capodanno, adding intrigue to the competition, while Gavin Cromwell will be bringing Limerick Lace over from the Emerald Isle.

While the Betfair Chase is the feature race of the day, the strong supporting card also features the Betfair Graduation Chase and the Betfair Stayers’ Hurdle.

The Graduation Chase, which was won in 2023 by Grey Dawning, always attracts some potential stars of the future. This year’s renewal features a number of exciting entries, including Iroko, trained locally in Cheshire by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerrero.

What else is there to do?

From 11.25am in the Parade Ring, a Retraining of Racehorses (ROR) parade will be taking place – featuring a guest appearance from Bristol de Mai. ‘The Silver Coated King of Haydock Park’ won the Betfair Chase three times and is a firm fan favourite at the racecourse.

The Haydock Band will also be on site providing the perfect soundtrack for the day.

With seven races on the card and an array food and beverage options available, there really is something for everyone to enjoy on the day.

You can find out more by visiting www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/hayockpark

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of St Helens. Please get in touch at simon.mulligan@newsquest.co.uk