Some 1,200 plus visitors descended upon North Yorkshire last year to attend the hugely popular ARC Malton Open Day, and this year’s renewal on Sunday 11th September is looking set to follow suit.
The event, organised by racing’s human welfare charity, Racing Welfare, kick starts National Racehorse Week which aims to celebrate both the racehorse and the staff responsible for the high levels of care they receive daily.
14 local racehorse trainers will open their doors to the public, giving unrivalled behind-the-scenes access to some of the most prominent and historic racing yards in the UK. Visitors to the North Yorkshire training centre will be able to meet a wealth of equine stars, as well as chat with the trainers and stable staff who provide their day-to-day care.
One such person is an aspiring jockey, nineteen-year-old Rebecca Burley who moved from Ireland to Malton to work at Tim Easterby’s Habton Grange Stables a year and a half ago.
Rebecca said: “I absolutely love it, Tim gives you a lot of opportunities to ride work and go through the stalls and things like that – it’s a brilliant yard to work in.”
Racing Welfare were instrumental in Rebecca’s move to North Yorkshire, supporting her with housing that made it possible for her to relocate. Sadly, not long after arriving, Rebecca was hit by a family tragedy, and turned to the local Racing Welfare team for support when she needed it most.
“When I first came over my mum sadly passed away and it was a really hard time for me. Sarah and Harriet were always there – I couldn’t have got through it without them. It meant such a lot – they always knew what to say, help you, give any advice and referred me for some counselling.
“I feel quite close to them and it’s great to know you can always have a chat. I didn’t know anyone at all when I first moved here and they helped me the whole time.”
Rebecca is looking forward to being a part of Malton Open Day this year and welcoming visitors to Tim’s yard.
“The yard people here are brill, it’s a really good group of people and that makes all of the staff happy. I’m really looking forward to the open day – it just shows people what Malton is all about and to inspire people to see what it’s like. Every yard is different and the atmosphere up here is amazing.”
Yards will open during the morning followed by activities at Highfield Gallops during the afternoon. Whilst visiting the open yards during the morning, guests will have the opportunity to see this year’s Royal Ascot winning horses Perfect Power and The Ridler at Richard Fahey’s Musley Bank stable. The afternoon’s packed schedule will see events for all the family, including the popular Linton Pet Shop dog show, as well as a Retraining of Racehorses show.
Advance tickets are available priced at £12.50 for adults. As always, under 16s are welcome to attend for free. Buy your tickets here.