York crowned top racecourse for second year running
York has been voted the best racecourse in the country for the second year running by the members of the Racegoers Club, the official supporters club for British Racing fans. It is the eighth time York has been awarded the titled after a close fought battle with Goodwood who took second place overall.
William Derby, Chief Executive and Clerk of York Racecourse, said, “The Racegoers Club is a fantastic organisation which represents a membership who are committed followers of the sport with horseracing being both their hobby and passion. To win and then retain the accolade of ‘Racecourse of the Year’ by the vote of such a fan base is an honour.
"It’s a real tribute to the hard work of so many that make racing at York such a special experience. The good news comes at a time when we are continuing to invest in the facilities, race programme and experience of racing at York, so we shall be working hard to retain the crown, with our season due to begin on Wednesday 16 May.”
Regional Winners
York also took the title of Best Large Racecourse in Scotland & The North, while Hamilton Park was voted Best Small Racecourse in the same region.
Cheltenham Racecourse was voted best Large Racecourse in the Midlands, while Huntingdon was voted the Best Small Racecourse in the area.
In the South, Goodwood Racecourse took the title of Best Large Racecourse for its region and Plumpton collected Best Small Racecourse.
Voters were asked for their scores on five categories; viewing experience, facilities, food & beverage, atmosphere and value for money. The courses were split into three geographical regions and the winners were selected by the highest overall average score across all categories.
The results produced a record 30 racecourses scoring over 4.5 out of 5 in any particular category, highlighting the hard work that racecourses have been putting into maximising customer experience.
Winning track York was described by one member as: “A first class all round experience and one of the country's best sporting venues.”
Goodwood picked up plenty of praise for its facilities, with one member commenting it had a, “picturesque setting, quality racing, a classy feel and a pleasant ambience.”
Meanwhile, Hamilton Park was described as, “A great racecourse with a friendly atmosphere and helpful staff.”
The praise for the small tracks didn’t stop there, with Huntingdon being described as: “One of the best small racecourses you can find. It’s excellent value and there is a clear view of the racecourse throughout.”
The ever-popular Cheltenham was commended by many members with one saying: “The best for top class jumping action and a fantastic atmosphere. The new stand is superb for viewing & extra space. Food outlets are varied, with good quick food.”
Plumpton also scored highly with members commenting on the warm atmosphere. One member said: “A really good example of a racecourse doing it well - good car parking area, nice bar, good viewing and nice relaxed atmosphere. We always have an enjoyable day!”