Press Raceday draws crowds

York Racecourse was packed with racing fans, from the smartly-suited and hatted brigade to the picnicking families out for the afternoon.

It all made for the promised relaxed atmosphere which was designed to make the second annual Sunday meeting sponsored by the Evening Press something a bit different from the usual weekday races.

One thing that was the same as ever though was the sport itself. Each race saw thousands of faces focused on their chosen horse, showing the usual expressions of elation and despair as money was won and lost once the horses had thundered past.

But before the races began, the afternoon started off with a display by The First Royal Dragoons, who were put through their paces in a 30-minute display.

During the afternoon there were attractions laid on for the crowd including the Equicisor, a racehorse simulator which visitors could try out.

Marketing manager James Brennan said it was too early to say if the crowds were bigger than last year but said everyone seemed to be having a good day.

"After a dodgy forecast, the weather has been smiling on us and everyone is thoroughly enjoying the day.

"It's good to see so many young racegoers here today."

For many, the day was a chance to have a family trip out and children seemed to be enjoying the excitement of the races as much as the adults and some were even picking out winners.

Bethany Hopwood, six, from Osbaldwick, said she had won £3 in the second race. She was with her mum Joanne and a big family group from across York who had brought a long a tasty-looking picnic to share.

Joanne and family member Pat Smith said they were having a great day.

June and Roger Seed, also from Osbaldwick, were sitting nearby with their friends and at that point in the proceedings June was ahead on the betting front after claiming a £5 win. They said they had come back to the event after enjoying it last year.

Updated: 08:33 Monday, September 03, 2001