ASCOT’S first meeting of 2016 is set to get off to a flying start tomorrow (Saturday) with the Clarence House Raceday, one of the most popular fixtures of the jumps season.
The day features the Grade One Sodexo Clarence House Steeple Chase, arguably Ascot’s best-loved race over the jumps, with a prize fund of £125,000.
The race is a vital stepping-stone to the Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, attracting the very best speed chasers in Europe, with the Willie Mullins-trained Arkle Challenge Trophy winner, Un de Sceaux, the current favourite.
The 2014 winner, Sire De Grugy, will be looking to regain his crown, while Sprinter Sacre was the only withdrawal at the five-day stage, with his trainer Nicky Henderson keeping in Captain Conan, who has been sidelined since fracturing his pelvis in two places during the 2014
Champion Chase.
Ascot’s Clerk of The Course, Chris Stickels, said: “The Sodexo Clarence House Chase looks particularly exciting. The ground is soft, heavy in places and the forecast is for the cold, frosty weather to remain until Thursday before conditions are expected to get milder for Friday and Saturday.”
Tickets for the Clarence House Chase Raceday on Saturday start from £23.00 (for groups) and accompanied children under 18 years of age gain free entry at all Ascot meetings.
To book or for further information, please call 0844 346 3000 or visit www.ascot.co.uk.
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