Cheltenham Festival News: Record 275,000 crowd expected over four days
Cheltenham Crowd
Prestbury Park is bracing itself for an influx of jumps racing fanatics as a record gate of over 275,000 is expected over four days of the Cheltenham Festival which starts on March 15.
Cheltenham will go from famine to feast in terms of crowds with 275,00 expected to influx Prestbury Park after the pandemic lockout.
While the four-day national hunt extravaganza went ahead last year, Covid-19 meant racing had to take place behind closed doors with only essential personnel on course.
Ian Renton, regional director for the track's owner Jockey Club Racecourses, said: "We're expecting over 275,00 people over the four days which will almost certainly be a record.
"We sold out Gold Cup day in late January, which is three or four weeks earlier than we've ever done it before. We sold out the Thursday approximately 10 days ago - that is a first - and we're well ahead on sales for Tuesday and Wednesday.
"It will be great to welcome not only racegoers back but also, more importantly, owners."
Renton emphasised the importance of the Festival to the Cotswolds economy.
"We normally reckon the Festival brings in over £100million to the local economy per annum," he added.
"I think the most exciting thing will be getting people back. Last year we had a wonderful four days of racing but it will be great to have the roar back."
The organisers are playing close attention to health protocols and urgng racegoers to remain sensible.
He said: "We are following government advice which reduces almost all requirements in terms of Covid. We will still be advising that if you are not well, then not to come racing - just follow the guidance.
"There won't be the same banks of sanitiser that were available (in 2020) but it will be available on the course and in washing facilities."
Renton also batted away suggestions that the Cheltenham Festival may be extended to a fifth day.
He added: "I think it's fair to say there's always talk of it at this time of year and I think it is something that isn't going to go away. I'm sure at some stage we will do some exploration into views on that, but it's four days this year and four days next year."
