Interesting Facts about Thirsk Racecourse

• Racing in the area for centuries: Horse racing around Thirsk can be traced back to the seventeenth century, although the modern course is much newer.
• The present Thirsk racecourse opened in 1923: Thirsk's current home at Sowerby was created in the early twentieth century and staged its first meeting in 1923.
• A dual-layout Flat course: Thirsk combines a compact round course with a separate straight track used for races over five and six furlongs.
• A distinctly Yorkshire setting: The Thirsk racecourse stands amid North Yorkshire countryside close to the market town of Thirsk and the North York Moors.
• The Thirsk Hunt Cup: The course's best-known race is the Thirsk Hunt Cup, a competitive mile handicap first run in the nineteenth century.
• Associated with James Herriot country: Thirsk is closely linked with the veterinary surgeon and author James Herriot, whose stories were inspired by his work in the surrounding district.
• A seasonal Flat venue: Thirsk stages Flat racing during the spring and summer, with meetings ranging from traditional afternoons to popular evening fixtures.