It’s all systems go for the team at Carlisle Racecourse as they prepare for the venue’s first raceday of 2023. Here, we catch up with General Manager Helen Willis...

We can’t wait to welcome racegoers back on Monday for what promises to be a great afternoon of action.

It will be fantastic to have crowds back on course having not had any racing here since the end of November, due to us sadly having to abandon our Christmas Jumper Day in December as a harsh frost swept across the nation. 

We have an exciting seven-race card to look forward to, featuring the Class 3 Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide Mares’ Handicap Chase, which holds an entry from last year’s winner, the locally trained Maid O’Malley from Stuart Coltherd’s yard. 

News and Star: Trainer Stuart ColtherdTrainer Stuart Coltherd (Image: PA)

This week, The Jockey Club announced that dress codes will no longer be in place at any of our 15 racecourses, including right here at Carlisle. We firmly believe that people should come to the races feeling their best and it’s really important to us to be as accessible and inclusive as possible. 

Given the weather we often experience here in Cumbria we have always encouraged racegoers to come dressed to stay warm and dry and hope that the decision to end dress codes will further encourage more people to come and enjoy our brilliant sport.

News and Star: The Jockey Club has announced an end to dress codes at its courses - including CarlisleThe Jockey Club has announced an end to dress codes at its courses - including Carlisle (Image: Jonathan Becker)

Our Winter Warmer hospitality package has proved popular once again as we are now completely sold out in our Swifts Restaurant on Monday however there are still some tables remaining at our next two fixtures on Monday, February 20 and Thursday, March 9, this package includes a three-course meal in our Swifts Restaurant for just £60 per person. 

Tickets are just £16 in advance on Monday so book now for the best price. We still have some Annual Badge Packages available for those that wish to become regular supporters of Carlisle Racecourse, these can be purchased online for just £215 per person. You can also find out more information about our dress code announcement on our website: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/carlisle/