Kelso Racecourse has grown in stature in recent years, with the flagship 'Morebattle Handicap' combining with the prestigious 'Premier Chase' and 'Novice Hurdle' to create a top-level racing event.
Managing director Jonathan Garratt expressed his delight at the support trainers have shown the track, highlighting Emmet Mullins' success with The Shunter who, two years ago, won the Morebattle and then the Cheltenham Festival Plate for a £100,000 bonus. Garratt is hopeful The Shunter can go on to further success in the Grand National next month, potentially ending up in 'folklore' at Kelso.
The Premier Chase has become an important National trial, as Ballabriggs, Auroras Encore and Many Clouds have gone on to Grand National glory after running in it previously.
The prize-money for the day stands at an impressive £275,000 and viewers will be able to tune in to watch racing's leading figures from the comfort of their own home. Garratt is hopeful that the day will draw in the crowds needed to make it a success, and he is thankful to ITV for shining a light on the racecourse and its assets.
It is clear that the Kelso Racecourse is aiming to become a key fixture on the British and Irish racing calendar, and its recent successes hint at a bright future for both the track and the sport in general.
