Horse racing: Under starter’s orders for season at the races

Apr 2 2009 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

HAMILTON Park Racecourse has cut entrance prices by up to 14 per cent ahead of its new 2009 season.

The Lanarkshire track's 19-fixture flat racing calendar commences on Sunday, May 3 and Hamilton Park's new management team is offering punters a series of savings against last year's prices.

Racing fans will pay up to £3 less than last year to attend Super Six meetings, which include high profile fixtures such as Silver Bell Cash for Kids Night, Ladies Night and John Smith's Fair Friday.

The move follows Hamilton Park's recent announcement that X-Factor stars JLS, Ruth Lorenzo and Diana Vickers are to perform for punters at the popular Family Night on July 11.

Hamilton Park chief executive Vivien Kyles said that there would be more changes on the cards at Hamilton as the racecourse attempts to grow its customer base in the face of challenging economic conditions.

She also announced that Hamilton Park has struck a deal with Ticketmaster which will see the ticket vendor promote and sell tickets for all of Hamilton’s events.

“We’ve reduced entry prices where possible and streamlined the criteria for advanced booking, and feel we’ve got a very attractive offering and terrific value for money,” said Ms Kyles.

“People can now attend any race meeting on our calendar for as little as £13.

"I don't know many other places you could watch six quality horse races and then take in a 90-minute live concert from the X-Factor finalists for £13 – but that's what is on offer at our Family Night in July.”