Festival of Racing draws ever closer

30 September 2008 -

One of the biggest events in Northern Ireland's equine calendar will take place in just over a month's time as the Festival of Racing celebrates its tenth birthday at the Down Royal Racecourse.

Two days of fun are expected to attract record crowds and some of the biggest names from the world of national hunt racing.

As much as 500,000 euros (£398,000) is available for those taking part while visitors can look forward to premium competition, trackside entertainment and high-quality hospitality, according the Down Royal website.

The racecourse will host the country's only Grade 1 Steeplechase, the JNwine.com Champion Chase, meaning visitors will see something unique.

Not all the action will be taking place on the track however, as the website claims the event serves as a "catwalk for Northern Ireland's most stylish men and women".

Fashion is a big theme this year as all visitors stand a chance to win a £1,000 voucher for the Elliott Designer Store in Hillsborough and another from Hugo Thomas tailors in Belfast.