Judy Murray to start Corgi derby
TENNIS coach Judy Murray will start the third annual Corgi Derby – the “four-legged sprint with a difference” – that kicks off The Virgin Bet Easter Saturday Raceday at Musselburgh Racecourse this weekend.
The event will see the return of reigning champion Rodney, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi who last year saw off 13 other competitors, including a distant relative of one of the late Queen’s beloved pets.
First launched as part of the racecourse’s jubilee celebrations, the event was moved to the annual Easter Saturday Raceday as a nod to the event’s royal connections, which include the £100,000
Queen’s Cup race.
Judy, mum to twice Wimbledon champion Sir Andy Murray and six-time Grand Slam doubles winner Jamie Murray, said: “It’s going to be a tough job to match the excitement of last year’s photo finish, but I know the dogs and their owners have been putting in the hard work behind the scenes, so I have very high hopes.
“The racecourse team have thought of everything to make this day a perfect Easter outing, whether you’re going for the family-friendly entertainment, the fun, food, friends and fizz, the top-quality racing or – like me – a combination of all of those.
“It’s one of my favourite days of the year.”
Following the Corgi Derby
at noon, the Mini Queen’s Cup takes place, with children racing on miniature bouncy unicorns, before an action-packed schedule of racing, including the
Scottish Sprint Cup.
The Queen’s Cup will see riders bid for a share of a £100,000 prize pot, with highcalibre racing from 1.50pm through to 5.20pm.
Aisling Johnston, of Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We couldn’t have predicted how popular the Corgi Derby would become, they have such a great character.
“It’s the perfect way to kick off Easter Saturday, which is one of our biggest annual events, even gaining the royal seal of approval along the way. There really is something for everyone.”
Racegoers can get food and drink from either a selection of street food stalls or formal drinks and dining packages.
The Virgin Bet Easter Saturday Raceday on Saturday sees doors open at 11.30am and the first race is off at 1.50pm (subject to change).
Those who book tickets before midnight tomorrow (Friday) will save £5 per person, with under-17s going free when accompanied by an adult.
For more information and to book tickets, see