Ladies Day disappointment /Coronavirus forces Musselburgh showpiece switch
Ladies Day at Musselburgh Racecourse has fallen victim to the coronavirus.
The hugely popular event has been cancelled following confirmation by the British Horseracing Authority that all scheduled fixtures in May and June are off.
The raceday, sponsored by Stobo Castle and which invariably attracts a capacity attendance of 10,000, was due to take place on Saturday 6 June. However, the East Lothian track has announced that, next year, Ladies Day will move to a new peak-summer slot in August.
Racegoers who purchased tickets in advance will be given the option of transferring tickets to the 2021 event or receiving a full refund.
Racecourse chiefs believe the date switch will provide Musselburgh with a highquality midsummer raceday and, with the prestigious Derby Day fixture in early June, it provides an excellent balance to the course’s Flat season.
Ladies Day will continue to feature competitive racing and off-track fashion and glamour along with entertainment from leading DJS and musicians.
Stobo Castle Health Spa marketing director Jenni
Watts said: “While it was disappointing but not a surprise that Ladies Day 2020 has been cancelled, we are excited about the prospect of supporting Musselburgh with the new 2021 August race day fixture.
“Our commitment to sponsoring Ladies Day over many years has helped grow the event in to year-on-year success with capacity attendances and we are confident this will continue when Stobo Castle Ladies Day moves to its new August berth.”
Musselburgh Racecourse senior operations and commercial manager Sarah
Montgomery said: “The safety of staff and customers is paramount. Stobo Castle Ladies Day is one of the most successful racedays in the UK and sells out in advance every year. By moving it to an August date and retaining Derby Day in early June, we are anchoring our summer
Flat season with two highly prestigious fixtures which will appeal to both casual and seasoned racegoers.
“The office remains closed so there may be a short delay in responding but staff are working to manage the transfer of Ladies Day tickets and to issue refunds.”