CHESTER Racecourse chief executive, Richard Thomas, has confirmed that the British Masters’ Invitational will be staged at Chester Racecourse next year with an expanded format.
Mr Thomas explained that there will be an extra day added to the weekend programme from July 3 to 5, 2009, which could attract thousands of punters to the racecourse and city with tickets priced at £5 to draw in families.
He said: “We were thrilled with the first year results of this event and have worked hard since with both the British Showjumping Association (BSJA) and Chester City Management, to understand how we can maximise the exposure of this event to both participants and the public.
“It is the vision of both the Chester City Council and the North West Development Agency that has made this possible and we look forward to working with them again in 2009. Proof positive that private/public partnerships really do work in the community.”
Chester enjoyed TV coverage of the 2008 event through SKY TV, which is confirmed for 2009. Sponsors are being lined up for the major events and the extra classes in the schedule.
Mr Thomas added: “A number of changes have been implemented for 2009, after consultation with other groups in and around the city.
“Chester City Management were keen for us to secure a weekend fixture, which would boost visitor numbers and for us to expand the programme so that we could broaden the appeal and the BSJA have given us a great weekend to stage this grand prix event.
“We have also taken the view that showjumping should be for everyone and have created a reduced one tier ticket price of just £5 for adults, with free car parking and children under 12 free.
“Chester Racecourse believe, that, like our family fun day, which is the most successful in the UK, this event should be tailor made for families.”
