Interesting Facts about Pontefract Racecourse

• Horse racing has taken place in Pontefract since the seventeenth century.
• The present racecourse was established in the early nineteenth century.
• Pontefract is located in West Yorkshire, close to the historic market town and castle.
• The course is left-handed and approximately two miles in circumference.
• Pontefract is one of the longest continuous circuits used for Flat racing in Britain.
• The uphill finishing section is regarded as one of the most demanding on the British Flat racing circuit.
• The racecourse stages Flat racing only.
• Pontefract was among the first British racecourses to install a photo-finish camera.
• The course is independently operated rather than being part of one of the major racecourse groups.
• The Pontefract Castle Stakes is one of the venue’s notable Listed races.