Mar 15, 2022

Racing Returns to Newton Abbot Racecourse

Racing fans are set to rejoice as summer jumps racing returns to Newton Abbot Racecourse on Friday 25 March for the Season Opener.

Following the 2021 season where most racing fixtures were subject to a severely restricted attendance cap due to the pandemic, this year will see bumper crowds welcomed back to the popular South Devon track.

Eighteen fixtures will take place at Newton Abbot this year between Friday 25 March and the finale on Saturday 15 October. With a mix of midweek, evening, and weekend fixtures, there’s a racing fixture for everyone.

Speaking ahead of the Season Opener, Patrick Masterson, Managing Director said: “We’re very much looking forward to welcoming crowds of racing fans back to Newton Abbot Racecourse after what has been a very difficult two years.

“Attendance caps have meant that many of our regular supporters were unable to join us last year, but we hope with these caps now lifted, we can once again welcome back many familiar faces.

“This year we have introduced a new online ticket store which offers a £2 discount on Paddock Enclosure entry when booked online in advance.
“Whilst the NHS testing centre remains on site, the Course Enclosure’s Bar and Café area will be closed and replaced with an outdoor bar and food outlets. We have also reduced Course Enclosure prices to just £12 for all fixtures.

“On the track, spectators will notice a change this year in the fences and hurdles. We are delighted to be amongst the first in the country to be part of a scheme changing the colour of jumps from orange to white to improve safety.

“This change is the result of scientific research conducted by Exeter University into the impact of colours on the jumping performance of horses. As horses have reduced ‘dichromatic’ colour vision compared to humans, they see mainly hues we would perceive as blue and yellow, and are unable to tell apart shades of red, green, and orange. The study found that changing the wood and vinyl padding of take-off boards, guard rails and top boards to white provided increased contrast and visibility for horses, leading to improved jumping performance.”

Alongside the welcome return of racing crowds to Newton Abbot this year, the racecourse will also bring back a host of much-loved events. May will see the return of the Newton Abbot Wellbeing Show which celebrates all things health and wellbeing.

The Newton Abbot Country Show will return on Saturday 6 August, with a fun-filled day of exhibitions, activities, and stalls for all the family to enjoy.

New this spring is the Newton Abbot Craft and Gift Fair on Saturday 9 April which will see 66 local exhibitors showcase their incredible range of homemade products and gifts. Plus, back by popular demand this December on Saturday 3, will be the Newton Abbot Christmas Fair which is quickly becoming a must-visit festive day out for locals.