Young minds were racing at Chester today when pupils from The Queens Lower School took part in a Racing to School Day delivered by the British Horseracing Education and Standards Trust.
The youngsters, studying maths and science as part of racing’s education programme, were given privileged access to areas off limits to the thousands of racegoers who flocked to the opening day of the course’s historic three-day May Meeting.
Led by Regional Education officer and former jockey Carrie Ford, the Year 5 students put their maths skills to practical use measuring and conducting risk assessments in the Parade Ring and learning the basics of handicapping in the weighing room before being invited to join racegoers in the stands to watch the first of the afternoon’s races.
Carrie Ford said, “We are particularly grateful to Chester for hosting us on one of the busiest and most prestigious days in their calendar”.
Richard Thomas, Chief Executive of Chester Race Company commented, “We are delighted to welcome The Queen’s Lower School to Chester Racecourse on the first day of racing this season. Connections with the local community are of paramount importance to us and the Racing to School initiative is a great way to get involved’.
Racing at Chester runs throughout the summer, with 11 further race days after the three day May Festival, culminating with the Chester Finale on 24th September.
Further information: Philip Brannan, Sportsguide Limited, 01344 774322
Judith Allen, Executive Director BHEST, 01638 560743
