MORE THAN 2,500 VISITORS EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF MIDDLEHAM OPEN DAY 2025 – RAISING MORE THAN £20,000 IN AID OF RACING WELFARE CHARITY
Middleham once again opened its gates to racing fans and families from near and far for the much-loved ARC Middleham Open Day, held in aid of Racing Welfare. The event proved a resounding success, drawing more than 2,500 visitors and raising in excess of £20,000 for the charity which provides vital support and guidance to racing’s workforce.
A total of nine top training yards took part, giving the public a unique behind-the-scenes look at the daily life of racing yards. Participating trainers included Karl Burke, Ed Bethell, Micky Hammond, Charlie and Mark Johnston, Phillip Makin, Neil Mechie, Patrick Neville, Jedd O’Keeffe, and Simon West who all welcomed visitors to their training operations to show how thoroughbreds are trained ready for the track, as well as being on hand to answer questions about their horses.
Rishi Sunak, MP for Richmond and Northallerton, attended the event, touring the yards with Dawn Goodfellow, Racing Welfare’s Chief Executive, to meet with trainers and yard staff. He even joined in the fun by taking part in an egg and spoon race with children during the afternoon festivities on Low Moor.
The vibrant afternoon programme on the Moor offered something for everyone. Compered by Racing Welfare’s Sarah Monkman, a Welfare Officer for the Northern region, with support from Derek Thompson, international horseracing presenter and commentator, spectators enjoyed Retraining of Racehorses showing classes and an engaging demonstration and Q&A with New Beginnings, highlighting the vital work done to support horses after their racing careers while families flocked to the children’s zone, which featured football challenges, face painting, pony petting, and dressing up in jockey silks.
One of the day’s most anticipated moments was the Inter-yard Challenge which included the White Rose Saddlery Tug of War, the Racing Welfare space hopper relay, and the ever-popular Wensleybale Bale Push, which brought roars of laughter and cheers from the crowd. Jedd O’Keeffe’s team triumphed were proudly crowned inter-yard champions.
Rounding off a perfect day, four-legged companions and their owners had their moment to shine in the Aiskew Equine and Pet Supplies Dog Show, a firm favourite among local pet lovers.
Dawn Goodfellow, Racing Welfare Chief Executive, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s Middleham Open Day such a resounding success. The support from the local community, trainers and their staff, volunteers, and visitors is truly heartening, especially as so much time and effort goes into planning and hosting this very special day.
“We’re delighted that more than 2,500 people were inspired to visit and celebrate all that Middleham has to offer as a racing centre – and in doing so helping to raise more than £20,000 for Racing Welfare which will go towards the charity’s Middleham projects and service delivery in the town.”
With its rich heritage, world-class training yards, and stunning Yorkshire setting, Middleham once again proved why it holds such a special place in the heart of British racing.
Those inspired by Middleham Open Day and looking to make a lasting impact, can now sign-up to Racing Welfare’s newest challenge – the Castle to Abbey Challenge – a 21-mile walk through some of Yorkshire’s most breathtaking countryside, from Scarborough Castle to Whitby Abbey.
By stepping out on this symbolic journey, not only will you get the chance to walk along Yorkshire’s stunning rugged coastline and enjoying all the physical and mental benefits outdoor exercise offers, they will also help to fund Racing Welfare’s vital services. To find out more and sign-up please visit: Racing Welfare Castle to Abbey Challenge