Chester Racecourse has won a prestigious national award at an annual event.

The Roodee was awarded the Owners’ Experience Award at the 2016 RCA Showcase Awards event (Racecourse Association), at Doncaster Racecourse, which celebrates innovation and excellence in the industry.

Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) members were asked to consider where racecourses across the country had met and exceeded expectations relating to the experience of racehorse owners.

The Chester Owners’ Experience impressed the judges with their new £400 minimum payment contribution scheme which helped contribute to a 14 per cent increase in owner attendance in this year.

Chester Racecourse was also named as finalist in the Operational Excellence category and for the Racing Together Community and CSR Award.

The news comes after the Roodee was awarded a gold standard status for the ninth consecutive year earlier this month.

Chester Racecourse
Chester Racecourse

Maggie Carver, Racecourse Association Chairman, said: “All of the winners tonight have shown an exceptional commitment to providing outstanding customer experiences at their racecourse.

“It’s really pleasing to see such a wide range of racecourses winning awards, highlighting the huge variety of raceday experiences available across our sport.

“Engagement levels with the event have increased again this year, which is testament to the ambitious and aspiring nature of our racecourses and I’d like to thank all those who entered.

“The finalists can be very proud of making the shortlist.

“Well done to the winners and I’m very pleased for the team at Chester Racecourse who have clearly shown the very best in excellence and innovation throughout the year.”

Accepting the Owners’ Experience award on behalf of Chester Racecourse, Jeannie Chantler said: “It’s such an achievement to be recognised in this prestigious category.

“That the owners are directly involved makes it even more special.

“We’re committed to ensuring the experience of owners at Chester is second to none and we’re already thinking about how we can make improvements ahead of the 2017 racing season.”