Spring dates not to miss at Exeter Racecourse

With spring in the air, and a spring in the step of race loving folk, March ushers in the first of the Festivals.

Cheltenham is on the tip of everybody’s tongues and as the sports pages fill with the clatter and clamour of anticipation, Exeter Racecourse will play host to its own little corner of Festival heaven with its preview evening on March 7.

Just one week before that famous roar heralds the start of Cheltenham 2017, ITV Racing’s Luke Harvey, David Pipe, Philip Hobbs, Nick Scholfield and Harry Derham will run the rule over the runners and give their thoughts on possible winners, with Luke Tarr from sponsors Star Sports adding his expertise, and commentator Gareth Topham hosting the evening.

Tickets for the not-to-be-missed evening cost just £10 in advance, £12 on the gate, or can be bought in conjunction with a Grandstand and Paddock or Premier ticket for £18.40 or £22.40 respectively. Prior to the evening, there are six races to enjoy, which are guaranteed to whet the appetite ahead of an intriguing evening.

Exeter’s second spring meeting is on March 21 and is sponsored by Higos Insurance Services. Ever popular with corporate clients, and those with a special day to celebrate, its hospitality suites allow for unique days at the races. The restaurant allows racegoers to dine in style while enjoying a perfect view across the racecourse.

Family day on Wednesday, April 11 is one the busiest and most action-packed days, not just with fantastic racing, including two pony races, but with loads of free children’s activities including two Dartmoor ponies to meet and the film Ice Age’s Sid and Scrat will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day.

Behind The Scenes tours will take place before racing, there will be jockeys' autograph sessions during the day and there will children’s running races down the home straight.

New this year will be the launch of Junior Jumpers at Exeter – bringing children exclusive news about their favourite jockeys and horses, plus the chance to meet them and take part in special activities. Take a look at the details here http://cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk/junior-jumpers and become a Junior Jumper.

There’s the chance to go on an Equisiser, which is an imitation racehorse, and wear jockeys’ brightly coloured silks and face painting.

At each meeting, children aged 17 and under go racing free, if accompanied by an adult, and there’s a free bus sservice too and from the course from Exeter St David’s and Exeter Bus Station.

For further details and to pre-book tickets, please visit www.exeter-racecourse.co.uk.