York's a winner

THE importance of the continuing improvements at York Racecourse is reflected by the ability of William Derby, and his team, to continue to attract the best racehorses in the world to the four-day Ebor meeting to take on this county's equine greats.

By The Newsroom

Published 18th Aug 2010, 01:29 BST

The highlight of the Yorkshire racing calendar, this annual event continues to grow in stature – both in terms of the quality of racing and the increasing number of spectators making use of the unrivalled facilities in the Knavesmire, and supporting the wider York economy.

Put simply, this meeting has only become so successful because the racecourse recognised the importance of investing in its staff and facilities. It is a winning formula that other sporting venues in the county would be wise to follow.

Yet, for many, the highlight of the entire week is today's Ebor, which dates back to 1843. Though not the classiest race on the card, it remains Europe's richest handicap – again testament to York's endeavours. And, if this year's contest is as close as the 1979 running when the local legend horse Sea Pigeon won by a whisker, then York's status as the country's top racecourse will have been reaffirmed, and deservedly so.