Punters and racing enthusiasts in the UK may need to set their alarms earlier than ever next year as the racing fixture list undergoes significant changes. In a bid to improve the quality of racing, the first races are set to start as early as 10.30am, the earliest ever in the UK. These changes are being made to make way for the new 'premier' meetings, which racing chiefs hope will have a transformative effect on the calendar.
Early Morning Fixtures and Premier Meetings
The 2024 racing calendar will see six morning fixtures, with the first one taking place at Lingfield on Saturday, January 20. The goal is for these morning meetings to finish before the 'premier' fixtures at Ascot and Haydock later in the day. If a morning fixture consists of a seven-race card, it will need to start between 10.30-11am.
The newly-christened 'premier' meetings are essentially the traditional major fixtures already in place. However, they will receive a boost in prize-money contributions, thanks to an additional £3.2 million from the Levy Board. The aim is to increase the purses around these major race days in order to keep talented horses from going overseas and to enhance competition. Additionally, it is expected that these changes will generate up to £90 million in revenue over the next five years.
Other Changes in the Calendar
Aside from the morning fixtures and 'premier' meetings, there will also be a trial of six Sunday evening fixtures in the first few months of 2024. This is in line with efforts to attract more viewers and increase revenue. Furthermore, 20 jumps fixtures have been removed from the calendar to improve field sizes.
Not Everyone is Happy
While these changes aim to benefit the racing industry as a whole, not everyone is pleased. Some tracks will lose meetings throughout the season, leading to discontent. However, BHA Chief Julie Harrington assures that these changes are part of a long-term plan to transform the sport. The expectation is that the changes will generate more revenue, allowing for investments in other key areas. Despite the inevitable challenges, the objective is to grow the sport and benefit the entire industry in the medium to long-term.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/horse-racing/racing-dynasties-take-over-as-ageing-dads-leave-superstar-stables-to-their-sons/
