York Racecourse is looking forward to the 63rd John Smith’s Cup, for many the informal highlight of the season, offering betting excitement and summer fun.

Racegoers can relax into their weekend on the Friday of the meeting watching high quality action courtesy of the Group Three William Hill Summer Stakes as the £80,000 highlight of a seven-race card.

The feature sponsor will joust with the betting public across five further competitive handicaps, backed by William Hill, Irish Thoroughbred Marketing and leading accountancy group, Azets. Whilst a future star could be unearthed in Novice Fillies Stakes, one of twenty-two contests to be backed by the European Breeders’ Fun over York’s season. As recently as late May, the David Loughnane trained, Walbank, won such a contest on the Knavesmire prior to featuring prominently at Royal Ascot.

On Saturday, the 63rd running of the John Smith’s Cup takes centre stage; for connections the £200,000  prize money and bespoke Wedgewood Trophy are the focus, for the crowd it will be finding the inner from the likely 22 contenders.

Pointers towards the best sprinters aimed at the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe will come from the Listed John Smith’s City Walls Stakes, with the winner of the G3 John Smith’s Silver Cup being one to watch ahead of the staying contests at the Ebor Festival.

With the weather forecast set to be fair, the decision has been taken to relax the dress code for County Stand, jackets will no longer be required, however a collared shirt and tie remain the obligation for this premier area. Shorts are welcomed in all areas of the racecourse.

The prospect of warm weather means the lawns and new County Stand Garden should prove popular, all have either a view of the track or a giant HD screen.

The same big screens will follow the major action from Newmarket, with Wimbledon available on dedicated televisions around the site. 

Musical entertainment from jazz to popular covers, will be found around the Stands including from the Melrose Stage, after racing.

The traditional selfie wall remains a focal point for some, on Saturday the additional 360-selfie camera will offer a free memento of a visit.

Picnics continue to be welcome in the Clocktower Enclosure with freshly made sandwiches starting from £3.80 and daily specials meaning a hot lunch is available from £8. Cash and card payments accepted.

Admission prices for those aged Over 65 start at £5 on Friday becoming £10 on Saturday for the Clocktower Enclosure, the same age concession means Grandstand & Paddock tickets are reduced to £16/£27 respectively.

Entry will be available on the raceday with gate prices at £7 then £12 for day two in the Clocktower Enclosure, £19/£30 in Grandstand & Paddock, £32/£49 in County Stand. There is FREE car parking and no booking fees. Under18s are free of charge.