Author: Peter McNeile

In a little over 2 months on March 11th this year, race day will return to the Stratford Racecourse, provided the floods have abated. As a sport, a large part of the entertainment factor comes down to the atmosphere and spirit of the occasion, and the opening day is brimful, with extra crowds anticipating four days at the Cheltenham Festival starting the following day. Compared to many other sports, betting is also indelibly wed to racing, with numerous fans seeing betting as a must-do activity to make the most out of the event.

This is exemplified with televised events such as Royal Ascot, the Grand National, and Cheltenham Festival. In 2021, for instance, the Grand National set the record for UK online sports betting, drawing in bets from more than 13 million people – that amounts to around a third of the adult UK population! And aligned to this, ITV Racing will cover more days’ racing in 2023 than ever before.

With online gambling more accessible than ever, horse racing has maintained its allure for both live and online fans alike. Wanting to find out why, we caught up with Alex Hussain, online gambling journalist focused on sports betting. Below is our chat with him about all things horses, online gambling, and why the 2024 season will be the most exciting yet.

Hi Alex, could you start off by telling us what you do for a living?

Hello there!  I’m an online gambling journalist with a particular love for all things sports. I cover a wide range of topics, but my main area is sports betting. I spend my time giving readers comprehensive news coverage on all the most bettable sports.

Speaking of bettable sports, we wanted to know what makes horse racing so popular online.

I think the main reason it’s so popular today is because the online gambling community is not all too different from the wider community. That is to say, when the online gambling industry got big 25 years ago, it wasn’t a whole load of new people finding gambling for the first time.

It was traditional gamblers transitioning to a more streamlined, convenient, digital platform to gamble. That transition integrated all the popular gambling pastimes – the ones that had been popular for a hundred years or more beforehand – and that included horse racing. In the highly developed UK market, racing remains the second most televised sport behind football, and this is a key driver to its availability and continued spectator appeal.

With a wide range of sporting events to bet on, it was thought that horse racing might fall down the rankings of online popularity. But it never really did. Of course, people like to bet on football and basketball and so on, but there’s still a special place for horse racing in the heart of the online community.

I think that’s potentially due to the popularity of ‘fixed odds’. Unlike pari-mutuel gambling – where wagers are deposited into a single pot – odds can fluctuate based on the wagers, with winnings being paid from the total payout. This means that gamblers can bet much in the same way that they do with club sports. It wraps everything up in a neat bow!

Interesting. Are there any other reasons for the popularity of horse racing in the iGaming community?

I think the inclusion of alternative payment methods helps. In 2024, users can place wagers through a variety of means, including cryptocurrency. With the added security and convenience of multiple payment methods, horse racing betting has been opened up to a wider audience. With the growth of that audience in mind, the online gambling world has also drawn in new horse racing fans, especially among the younger Gen Z generation.

For instance, there are a load of horse racing-themed slots, and even simulated horse races that gamblers can wager on. This is important, because these ‘races’ are available at any time, on any day. Real horse racing, however, is constrained to a seasonal window. Because virtual races occur daily, there’s more chance to draw in new fans and new interest in the real thing. By appealing to gamers, racing can attract fans into real racing too.

That’s crazy. So virtual games and simulations are actually aiding the real sport?

Oh yes, definitely. Just think, in 2021, the overall wagering handle increased to $12.2 billion. This was a big increase over 2020, even though there were 30% fewer races in the huge US market. The only thing you can put that down to is the online-verse. New fans are arriving everyday, and horse racing is only getting more popular as a result. I think we can only expect it to get bigger in the future, too. It’s a very exciting time to be a horse racing fan and an online gambling fan, especially with all the options at your fingertips.

Alex, thank you for your insights.

Any time!

Dan Skelton’s gelding Protektorat has been one of the leading chasers in the UK and Ireland over the last couple of seasons. The highlight in that period was his Grade I success in the Betfair Chase at Haydock in 2022.

Skelton has given Protektorat two entries at the Cheltenham Festival in 2024, as he is in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Ryanair Chase, for which entries close in January. A decision on which of those races he lines up in will be made closer to the meeting.

Third shot at Gold Cup

Should he appear in the 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup in 3 months, Protektorat will be having his third start in the blue riband event of the Cheltenham Festival. He is 66/1 to win the 3m2f contest, and those looking to back Skelton’s runner should consider the leading horse racing betting offers on the meeting. They include bet365’s bet £10, get £30 in free bets promotion which is available to new customers.

The eight-year-old made his Gold Cup debut in 2022 and he finished a respectable third in the race which was won by A Plus Tard. A year later, he was fifth of 13 runners in the 2023 renewal that went the way of Irish star Galopin Des Champs.

Protektorat now has an official chase rating of 165, which is 5lb lower than when he featured in the 2023 Gold Cup. He is one of 27 horses that have entries for the feature race at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

Ryanair trip may suit

The former Grade One winner has yet to show his best form in two runs so far this season. Both of those appearances have come over distances beyond 3m. With that in mind, Skelton may be leaning towards the Ryanair Chase, which is over the short trip of 2m5f.

Protektorat has been successful over 2m4f at Cheltenham, so he has shown he has the speed for the Ryanair Chase. That race would be seen as an easier assignment for the British horse, as the Gold Cup is set to feature several big players from Ireland this season, although the Irish will be well represented in the Ryanair too.

Next appearance set to be Lingfield

Skelton has revealed that he expects Protektorat’s next run to come in the Fleur de Lys Chase at Lingfield on January 21st. That valuable race is worth £165,000, and it is one of the feature contests at the three-day Winter Million meeting, a concept introduced in 2023.

Broadway Boy wins again under a foot perfect ride from Sam Twiston-Davies!

🏆 Favourite From @TheSun Now Daily Handicap Chase 🏆  
🥇 Broadway Boy
🥈 Threeunderthrufive
🥉 Protektorat⁰ @samtwiston | @NigelTwistonDav pic.twitter.com/vql3A0SID8

— CheltenhamRacecourse (@CheltenhamRaces) December 16, 2023

Responsible gambling are the two words on everyone’s lips presently as racing’s campaign to ward off affordability checks gathers momentum. The petition urging the Gambling Commission to review its proposed authoritarian checks has now passed 100,000 signatories, ensuring lively debate in Parliament.

It’s fair to say, however, that British bookmakers have been in the vanguard of sense-checking affordability within existing legislation. No TV or media advert finishes without a caveat to game responsibly, the industry’s effort to reduce problem gambling to manageable levels.

Online casinos and betting sites have surged in popularity, providing an avenue for entertainment and potential winnings right from the comfort of one’s home. However, with convenience comes responsibility. Ensuring that you’re playing safely and responsibly is paramount, and the following is an example of what most sites are doing to rein in the excesses of their less inhibited customers.

Understand the odds

Every game in a casino, online or offline, has a house edge. That means that, in the long run, the house always wins. Understanding this fact can help manage expectations. Always play for fun and treat any winnings as a bonus. You can find plenty of information online to help you understand the odds of different games, and how a lot of it is down to mathematics. On a racecourse, the overround tells you the profit for the bookmaker in the book; it’s a handy tool to allow you to see where the value lies.

When it comes to finding new casinos, you can look for the most competitive promotional incentive online on offer, and use that as a way to experience fresh titles and gameplay without needing to make too large of a deposit. This is what these promotional bonuses are designed to do – to give you a feel for the casino without a heavy commitment, so don’t forget to take advantage of them. Remember, however, that if an incentive feels way too good to be true, it probably is. Popular casinos are highly competitive so the offerings are consistently great for new players, but, like any business, they still need to protect their bottom line if they’re operating above board. 

Set a budget and stick to it

Before logging into your online casino account, decide on a specific amount that you’re willing to spend – and potentially lose. Once you’ve hit that limit, it’s time to log out. Chasing losses can lead to bigger losses, so it’s essential to have discipline. The kinder on-course bookmakers will also look after their clientele; some refuse to take bets from consistent losers who look down on their luck.

Any reputable casino will also provide plenty of resources on responsible gambling, and on knowing when to step away from the table, machine, or board. Make sure you’re always working within your means, and not relying on potential winnings to top you up again.

When big matches or games are coming up, decide how much you’d be willing to lose. While nobody wants to think about losing when they’re preparing a bet, it helps to frame it that way to ensure you never bet beyond your means.

Use time management

Set time limits for your gambling sessions. Just like setting a budget, decide in advance how long you plan to play. Using alarms or reminders can help keep you in check. There are plenty of ways to implement better time management in your personal life, so try to work out what’s best for you.

Know when to take a break

If you find yourself on a losing streak or becoming frustrated, it might be time to take a break. Online casinos will still be there tomorrow. It’s essential to remember that gambling should be a fun activity, not a source of stress.

Stepping away from the computer for a while is always a good idea, whether you’re using it for leisure or for work.

Buff up on the games

While many casino games are based on luck, some have strategies that can increase your chances of winning or at least reduce the house edge. Before playing a game, take some time to understand its rules and any strategies that might apply. Some games rely heavily on strategy – for instance, poker or blackjack – while others are based more on chance, such as slots. Neither one is necessarily better than the other, but it helps to understand how much is chance and how much is skill.

Use the self-exclusion tools

Most reputable online casinos offer self-exclusion tools, allowing you to have a break from gambling for a specific period. If you feel you’re losing control, use these tools to prevent access to the platform.

While you may not think they’re necessary for you, implementing one of these tools is a great way to make sure you’re never tempted to go further than you know you should. Think of it like a lifeboat – it may never be deployed, but it should always be there anyway.

Don’t chase jackpots

Progressive jackpots can be incredibly tempting. The allure of a life-changing sum of money with just one spin is hard to resist. However, the odds of winning them are typically very low. It’s okay to try your luck occasionally, but don’t make them your primary focus.

Continually chasing these jackpots can lead to excessive spending and disappointment. Instead, enjoy the smaller games and victories along the way. Remember, the essence of online casinos is entertainment. By keeping your expectations realistic and not getting overly fixated on jackpots, you can maintain a healthier and more enjoyable gaming experience.

Online casinos provide an exciting fusion of accessibility, fun, and the allure of winning. Yet, like any recreational activity, they demand a mindful and conscious approach. By adhering to the tips shared earlier, you can dive into the casino world securely and responsibly. It’s paramount to understand that gambling is primarily about enjoyment, not a solution to financial challenges or a surefire way to wealth. Relish the games, gamble wisely, and recognize the right moment to step back.

And so the season was brought to a close in miserable November rain as Storm Cieran made its presence felt in the Midlands. Stratford ground staff, hoping for a good ground finale, were left ruing the impact of a healthy 70 runners leaving their mark on the rain-softened turf.

Changes in going often precipitate long-priced winners, but with two notable exceptions, there were no great surprises in this seven race card to see Stratford into its winter hibernation.

Olly Murphy got the best of early exchanges, initiating a double, courtesy of Iddergem in the seller and What A Johnny in the second division of the EBF National Hunt Novices qualifier. Sean Bowen sought out better ground on the outer on What A Johnny, and looked outpaced two out, but the 8/11 favourite found more in the final stages to outrun Havock from the Skelton yard by a neck at the line.

Iddergem was one of just 4 runners in the seller, sponsored by trainer Claire Dyson, who didn’t field a runner to win back her own investment. There wasn’t much between three of the four two out, but the home turn saw Iddergem assert under 3lb claimer Lewis Stones to win by 3l. There was no bid for the winner, perhaps not entirely surprising in the small field and miserable weather.

Murphy’s horses are running well, with a winner at Cheltenham’s opening Showcase fixture last weekend, this double bringing his tally to 30.

Bowenspark made a winning debut over the smaller obstacles in division one of the EBF qualifier for Henry Daly. Two bumper wins at Uttoxeter and Warwick were enough to persuade the likeable Shropshire trainer to pitch the five year old into a Grade II bumper at the Grand National meeting in the Spring, where a 2 1/2l fourth was more than creditable. Bowenspark, in the Hemmings colours made famous by a series of Aintree legends, was an impressive 11l winner in this 9 runner field, and looks set to return to graded company.

Another debutante with a future may be Getaway Theatre, winner of a Rathcannon point-to-point in April, who shaped up well in a middle distance maiden mares hurdle . She and 3l runner-up Coco Mademoiselle put distance between them and anything else, the rest of the field out with the washing. Trainer Stuart Edmunds has enjoyed his two best seasons these past two years. Ciaran Gethings was in the plate this time around.

Newmarket handler Sarah Humphrey has something to look forward to with dual winner Nickle Back, so far unbeaten over fences following a win at Warwick, then yesterday, by a comprehensive 19l in the Charlie Longsdon sponsored handicap chase. the 2m 3f contest, in which 2 fences were omitted, turned into a war of attrition, with just 3 of the six finishing. Sarah’s small yard achieved 10 winners from just 53 runs last season, and whilst an unfamiliar visitor to Saturday fixtures, she overperforms around the country courses. James Best took the mount.

The slightly longer 2m6f handicap chase later in the card celebrates Jim Rowe’s involvement in the ownership of Stratford Racecourse, manifested now by son Michael, as Chairman. A stronger field of 11 met the starter, where Guguss Collonges took advantage of weaker opposition to notch a second chase victory for Lambourn handler Roger Teal and jockey Lilly Pinchin.

The Collonges bloodline is well known now in British racing, where a number of horses have reached the highest level. Guguss Collonges may never be one of the better known members of this distinguished thoroughbred family, but is a dual winner nevertheless.

The biggest field of the day faced the starter in the Jim & Rita Feeney Handicap Hurdle over 2m 2f. The fact that this was never going to be one of Stratford’s best quality races won’t have worried Edgcote trainer David Dennis, forced to field two runners in the same race after not making the cut in other contests. The wellbeing of his string manifested itself in a one-two led by 50/1 winner Harthill, ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies, with the Tom Bellamy – ridden Libor Lad 1 1/2l behind.

The weather put a downer on a sparse crowd waiting to see the season finale, when Jamie Snowden produced 3 year old La Marquise to win the bumper on debut, thus making his 11th individual winner to date in the season now getting into top gear.

Dan Skelton’s Alcester yard is girding up to full speed as the first of the significant Saturday cards hoves into view this weekend, and introduced another smart newcomer at Luddington Road in Kartoon & Co, a juvenile in the ownership of the Betts family, owners of some terrific horses in the past, including private Audition, winner of the 1988 Cesarewitch. Big winners have been harder to come by in recent years, but in this well-bred French gelding, there was plenty to like, even in a small 4 runner field. The winner was 7 1/2l ahead of the runner-up, the two more than 60l apart from the only other finisher.

There was plenty else to enjoy during a day shared by many winning partnerships. Shetland Tony continued the rich vein of form enjoyed by the Twiston-Davies team when justifying 7/2 favouritism for the Newport Recycling Novices Hurdle, under Sam Twiston-Davies in a bloodless 18l victory. Recent success is small compensation for the loss of Greatwood Hurdle winner I Like To Move It on his chasing debut at Uttoxeter on Saturday, but Nigel is nothing if not phlegmatic. Twiston-Davies Jnr is a man in a hurry presently; his last week’s rides have served up no less than 7 winners for 4 separate trainers.

Perseverance is everything in racing, and the point was amply proven in the Re-Gen Waste Novices Handicap Chase over 2m 3f. Winner Martalmix’jac – a commentator’s tongue twister – finally got his head in front at the fifteenth attempt in one of the card’s two chases with a 2l margin over Famoso, a winner here at the end of August. This looks a horse that needs everything right for him, which, as we all know, happens rarely in this sport. Full marks to trainer-rider partnership Mel Rowley and Alex Edwards for persistence, and to syndicate owner High and Low, who have experienced more than their share of the latter adjective.

The other chase of the day produced the most exciting finish of the afternoon, when the Oliver Signy-trained Jigginstown King justified his short 2/1 favourite’s tag in holding off the in-form Lavelle yard of Minella Buster. Given Emma Lavelle’s team is also primed for a productive autumn, it shouldn’t be too long before he is winning either, but credit is die to Ben Jones for a forceful ride that saw off Tom Bellamy by 1/2l at the line. Jigginstown King was completing a hat-trick following Spring victories at Fontwell and Fakenham.

⚽️ Hat-trick landed

Jigginstown King lands the CS Recycling Handicap Chase for @OliverSigny pic.twitter.com/TawiN6zZE7

— Stratford Racecourse (@stratfordraces) October 9, 2023

Another of the top rank trainers running into a rich vein of form is David Pipe, who struck here with the Jack Tudor-ridden Myristica in the 2m 2f Novices handicap hurdle. The five year old mare has done little wrong since joining Pipe from Yorkshire in April, running up a hat-trick in mid-summer and never being out of the frame. Pipe is hunting down a rider for his Cesarewitch hope Wordsworth, well fancied to defy top weight in this Saturday’s big staying handicap.

Robbie Llewellyn is another product of the South Wales centre of racing excellence. The Vale of Glaorgan trainer was previously 2 i/c to David Brace, and has worked for Tim Vaughan and Evan Williams, mainstays of Welsh Jump racing. Based on his percentages, this could be a breakthrough year for him, notching up his seventh winner of the term, a personal best, with 11/4 favourite Top Cloud in the opening conditionals hurdle, ridden by another man on the march, Liam Harrison.

Just as Llewellyn is a product of the British Point-to-Point circuit, so the final winner of the day celebrated a team back training under its own name with a fine history of success between the flags. Graeme McPherson disappeared from the training ranks when joining forces with Fergal O’Brien, but that partnership drew to a close due to the complications of running two training sites 15 miles apart. Moon Chime, a five year old gelding that had won at Worcester under the ancien regime earlier in the summer, made it 2 from 2 in the concluding bumper with a handsome 7l margin under claimer Nick Slatter to get the old firm on the scoresheet once again.

Racing, considered as the ‘Sport of Kings,’ is a captivating fusion of art and science. It’s a realm where powerful thoroughbreds gallop to victory, spurred on by the dreams of their owners, trainers, and countless fans. But behind the raw power, the striking elegance, and the rousing cheers lie intricate systems and multifaceted intricacies governing a horse’s performance on the racetrack.

The role of genetics in determining racing potential

It’s often said that champions are born, not made. In the context of horse racing, this adage finds a strong foothold in the realm of genetics. A horse’s genetic makeup can significantly influence its natural predisposition towards speed, stamina, and competitive spirit. The simple reason that Coolmore, Godolphin and Juddmonte win so many of the Pattern races across the world Flat calendar has as much to do with their colonisation of the best bloodlines as with any inferred genius in training or riding.

Historically, certain bloodlines have earned illustrious reputations for producing racing prodigies. Take the example of the legendary ‘Northern Dancer.’ His descendants have dominated racetracks globally, making his lineage one of the most coveted. But why this fixation? Studies have indicated distinct genetic markers linked with elite racing performance. Thus, when breeders spot these markers in pedigree lines, they see potential champions. Northern Dancer’s progeny have consistently turned out to be champion sires in their own right, and the same is the case over Jumps, but without the dominance of one bloodline.

There are glorious exceptions however. Red Rum, bred to be a sprinter, turned out to have stamina in abundance, and a particular leaning toward Aintree’s out-of-the-ordinary fences. Sometimes, it’s as well to remember that horses can make fools of us all.

While genetics offers a glimpse into a horse’s latent potential, realizing that potential is a whole different ball game. And here, training gallops into the spotlight.

Training regimes and routines: crafting a champion

Every horse, regardless of its breeding, is unique. Any trainer blurb will tell you how each animal’s needs are treated on a one-to-one basis. This individuality demands tailored training approaches. Think of training as sculpting a block of marble into a masterpiece. The raw material is vital, but the sculptor’s skill and approach breathe life into the stone.

There exists a multitude of training techniques, ranging from interval training to steady cantering. Some trainers focus on building a horse’s stamina by subjecting them to long, slow workouts. In contrast, others might emphasize short, explosive drills to hone their speed. Some horses take no training at all; others are stuffy in the wind, and require plenty of work.

But training isn’t merely about physical conditioning. Renowned trainers, with their vast reservoirs of experience, often emphasize the psychological aspect. They work tirelessly to cultivate a winning mindset in their charges, teaching them to respond to jockey cues, handle the pressure of race day, and navigate crowded fields. The rapport between a horse and its trainer is an intangible yet crucial element, bridging the gap between innate potential and racing prowess.

Take Harchibald, winner of 10 races from his 31 runs over the smaller obstacles for Noel Meade. He is what’s known in the trade as a “thinker”, code for a horse that needs to be kidded to put his best foot forward at the right time. In supreme stylish and arch-tactician Paul Carberry, he found a like-minded soul ready to hold him up until the last possible moment before launching his run, meaning he generally won by a small margin and on the line only. Not a bet for thee faint-hearted.

Training then. is not just about physical fitness, but mental awareness too.

The modern day racing scene

Times have changed, and so has horse racing. Today’s racetracks are witnessing an exciting convergence of age-old traditions and cutting-edge innovations. Advanced technologies monitor a horse’s vitals in real-time, specialized diets fine-tuned to individual needs enhance performance, and data analytics predict optimal training routines. This was all considered black magic when the likes of Michael Dickinson and Martin Pipe introduced it in the late eighties and nineties, but their processes have become mainstream.

Horses are weighed regularly; diet is scrutinized like never before. No longer do you hear much about eggs and Guinness being added to horses’ diets like with Arkle and others of his era, as nutrition has moved well beyond the stableman’s knowhow. Swimming is more often than not an integral part of training, to ease stress on joints.

But, amidst this scientific precision, the heart of horse racing still beats with unpredictability. No matter how much we advance, the race’s outcome remains a thrilling enigma until the very last second. This blend of precision and unpredictability is what makes betting on racing a thrilling endeavour for many enthusiasts, whether you’re a stato anxious to know what rail movements have added in distance to a race, or whether you’re an occasional punter seeking an instant fillip.

However, the unpredictability is not a detraction; rather, it’s a proof of the myriad factors influencing a race. While understanding the underlying science can offer enthusiasts a perceived edge, the unpredictable heartbeats, individual choices, and split-second decisions remind us that there’s always more to learn, observe, and admire in this magnificent sport. As the horses thunder down the track, every stride they take is a product of generations of breeding, months of tailored training, and the passionate spirits guiding them. Yet, there’s always room for that surprise burst of speed or unforeseen riding error that turns predictions on their heads.

However you love it, the sport is captivating every time.

A day at the races should be an excuse to dress up as much as possible. However, there are some refinements that are needed to make you stand out in the right way. Dress codes at the races are a subject of continuing discussion among British racegoers at any rate. Among UK racegoers, racecourses rarely stand on ceremony nowadays; you might get turned away in swimmers and flip-flops, but just about everything else goes. By contrast, in Australia, dressing up is par for the course, and spectators of both genders jump at the chance to get dolled up. Fashions in the Field competitions are legion.

But in one sense this is simple. You should be wearing boots and breeches, a helmet, some silks, etc.

Then again, you’re not a jockey, are you? If you’re not intending to jump on board a horse, that’s not the tip you’ll be looking for. If you’re looking to enjoy the comfortable facilities at Stratford, including its bars and restaurants while you watch the races, you’re going to need some guidance on how best to dress to impress. A day at the races is no ordinary day out. It’s an excuse to dress up. However, there are some refinements that are needed to make you stand out in the right way. Take a look at our guide to what to wear when visiting Stratford Racecourse, or for that matter any other racecourse around the Midlands.

Some basic rules

A day at the races is considered an occasion, so take a wander through the “Occasion” section of your favourite clothing brands. But remember, there are occasions and Occasions. Stratford is not Ascot, and Cheltenham in October is not Cheltenham in March. If you’re in doubt as to the status of the meeting you’re headed for, take some advice beforehand.

We’re talking dresses and suits, but not necessarily formal. This is because a day at the races, the big events anyway, tend to be held in the summer, with the glorious exceptions of the Cheltenham Festival and Aintree Ladies Day, both exceptions to the rule. You’re going to be outside watching the racing, making your UK bet, weather permitting, so summer colours, shoes, and patterns are all expected.

For men

You might think this answer is simple too: wear a suit. But since when is life simple? Men might be more limited in their options than women but they have to nail it, or you’ll see the mistake and credibility goes out of the window. Make sure your suit is tailored and fits well. It was no coincidence after all that stylish but now sadly defunct Jermyn Street shirtmaker Thomas Pink became involved in the sport 20 years ago.

However, wearing a suit means you can experiment with it. There is fabric, colour and accessories to think about. You can take things up a notch with a three-piece suit to really look like you belong and play with prints and colours. Tweed is a regular at the racecourse, to the point that the barmen know its drink, but there are lots of options within that. Accessories on March 17 is code for a spring of shamrock for example.

Just remember the rules of seasonal wear: pastels for summer and spring, brights for winter, and warm tones for autumn.

Remember the golden rules: no outlandish or clashing patterns, no clashing socks, and no tuxedo. It’s an outdoor summer event that doesn’t call for a heavy dinner jacket.

There are also some unspoken rules re headwear: no Panama before Ascot, although global warming may have tempered the rigidity of this particular no-no. Time was when wearing a hat was obligatoire. Now men are more likely to be seen bare-headed or with a Peaky Blinders baggy tweed cap rather than a trilby.

For women

Women have a lot more options in general when it comes to fashion. For example, one big decision you will face is whether to wear a dress or not. Maybe you’re more comfortable in trousers. There’s nothing wrong with that. A nice pair of summer wide-leg trousers would be a smart option and can still be very bright for the occasion. Plus, a simple white or black t-shirt or shirt will really pop the colour of your trousers and leave you feeling comfy. Additionally, you can look rather daring in a jumpsuit at the races. Somewhere between trousers and dresses, this one piece will allow you to look done up without keeping a hold of your skirt the entire day.

The winter brigade have adopted tweed in a big way for ladies fashions. It’s no coincidence that Holland Cooper and Dubarry have become such enduring brands around Cheltenham. There’s tweed and leather everywhere, from your dog’s over-blanket to the garters of your socks and everything in between.

The real fun here is in the accessories. What is a day at the races without an outlandish hat? If you don’t want to go too big, you can look into a simpler headpiece on a headband. However, it’s a day at the races: we’re not going to stop you from going as big and bold as possible, and hang what the folks behind you in the stands think; they can always move to somewhere with a better view!

Conclusion

All that to be said, a day at the races is like anything else: wear what you feel comfortable in. If you want to dress up, dress up. If you fancy a T-shirt and jeans, no one is going to have a problem with it. If they do have a problem with it, they need another drink.