Jim McGrath reflects on Macmillan Charity raceday memories

Added: Friday 7th June 2024

York Racecourse will host racings biggest charity day on Saturday, when thousands will head to the Knavesmire in support of the biggest annual fundraiser for the Macmillan Cancer Charities which has raised over ten million pounds in its history dating back to the early 1970's.

The day was created in Yorkshire, and everyone attending on Saturday will contribute.

So how did it all begin?

It all came about through the work of the Halifax based Timeform Organisation.

Well known TV Broadcaster Jim McGrath worked for them in those early days, and he will sponsor a race on Saturday in honour of his mentor and the real driving force behind the event in those years, Reg Griffin.

Jim's been sharing  a few memories and telling how the Macmillan Charity Raceday started all those years ago has become what it is today, in conversation with Mike Vince. 

If this audio file will not play in your browser, please click here to download to your device instead.

Tom Marquand wins the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes

Added: Thursday 16th May 2024

Connections have a week to decide whether to supplement Economics, the 6 length winner of the Dante Stakes at York for the Derby at Epsom.

The colt, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, was a 6 length winner on only his third start.

He will need to be supplemented for the Blue Riband, and was the highlight of a big day for jockey Tom Marquand, who also won the EBF Westow Stakes on the returning Big Evs.

Here he is with Mike Vince. 

If this audio file will not play in your browser, please click here to download to your device instead.

Copper Knight back to the Knavesmire

Added: Wednesday 15th May 2024

Record breaking sprinter Copper Knight will bid to add to his astonishing York record when he lines up in the opening Lindum York Handicap on day 2 of the Dante Festival on Thursday.

It will be his 27th charge down the York straight and he will be trying to win for the 9th time.

It's starvation rations for jockey Duran Fentiman, who has to tip the scales at 8 stone.

He's been speaking with Mike Vince.

If this audio file will not play in your browser, please click here to download to your device instead.

York's dream of adding a fourth Group 1

Added: Thursday 7th December 2023

York Racecourse will find out next month if their dream of adding a fourth Group 1 Championship race to the flagship Sky Bet Ebor Festival in August has been successful.

The British Horseracing Authority is backing the track's plans to upgrade the Sky Bet City of York Stakes into Britain's first Group 1 championship race over 7 furlongs.

The decision rests with the European Pattern Committee at their January meeting.

York Chief Executive William Derby is keeping his fingers crossed.

If this audio file will not play in your browser, please click here to download to your device instead.