Final Furlong for the Border Principals
The start of the Kelso Racecourse’s National Hunt Racing season opens Sunday 6th October and features one race that is a highlight of the year for so many – The Border Principals Flat Race. Riders in the race include Kelso Laddie Callum Thomson.
This is a totally unique race, and is one of the most popular in Kelso’s calendar when the Border Principals take to the turf. Now in its 9th year this is a race that is as always guaranteed to be hugely exciting and very competitive. The riders are the elected Principals from 14 mainly border towns who all hold Common Ridings to celebrate the traditional defence and marking of each town’s boundary with its neighbours.
Last years’ winner was Ian Dick of Lauder and one of the previous competitors was this year’s winning Grand National Jockey Ryan Mania. For Kelso Races this is the opening day of their season, however for the14 Border Principals it is very much their final four furlongs.
Speaking after his fitness assessment in advance the race Callum Thomson, The Kelso Laddie said:
“This race is a fantastic way to end the summer for all of the principals yet it will be competitive, but at the same time I know it will be good fun. The competition is very tough there are a number of good riders, I’m keeping my fingers crossed, but we will just have to wait and see on the day.
Gates open at 12 noon and a full afternoon’s racing will take place at Kelso Racecourse prior to the Principal’s race at approximately 6.00pm. The other races on the card for the day include The Radio Borders Handicap Hurdle, The Urwin Family Juvenile Hurdle, The Tiger Mcelrath Novices Limited Handicap Steeple Chase, The NSPCC School Service Intermediate Hurdle, The Fleet Bar Eyemouth Handicap Steeple Chase, The Endeavour Novices Handicap Hurdle, and The City Roofing Ltd Standard Open NH Flat Race.
Racing is sport which is increasing in popularity and commenting in advance Richard Landale Managing Director for Kelso Races said: “ This is always a very special day on two counts, firstly it is the first race day of the season so it is always very social and very much a family day out with the excitements of examining the form, considering who to back, watching the races, and hopefully collecting the winnings. “
“Secondly, the opening day drawing supporters from every part of the Scottish Borders for a bit of good natured local rivalry not just between the Principals taking part in the race but also between the Border Towns.”
