THE starting stalls are nearly up on the second annual Evening Press-sponsored Raceday at York Racecourse. This Sunday sees the gates open again after the successful Ebor meet last week for another day of family fun.

The first race starts at 2pm, but while the sport is the centrepiece of the action, there will be plenty more going for the family. There are seven races scheduled for the event, with the last due to start at 5.20pm.

Tickets are selling well and with only two days to go, crowds are expected to exceed last year's attendance of 22,500.

The day is intended to be more relaxed than normal race meetings, and in between races people will be able to try out attractions or relax on the lawned areas.

Sadly rookie racehorse Evening Press has had to put her debut on hold for this meet because of racing technicalities. The filly, leased by readers of the Evening Press off Norton-based trainer Tim Etherington, is set to run at New-castle on September 10, having been prevented from starting on Sunday.

Nevertheless, the day is still packed with entertainment. Before racing begins there will be a cavalry display by The First Royal Dragoons at 12.45pm. The Huddersfield-based group, who proved popular last year, will be put through their paces by an ex-Army instructor from the Household Cavalry.

Another popular attraction will be the Equicisor, a racehorse simulator used to train professional jockeys.

The electronic 'horse' simulates the experience of riding a racehorse and can be adjusted to different levels according to the experience of the rider.

And novice race-goers might like to visit the Racing Explained panel in the parade ring. Minster FM will be broadcasting a live roadshow between 1pm and 4pm from Tattersalls.

Tickets are priced at £20 in the County Stand and men have to wear jackets and ties, £10 in Tattersalls, where dress is more casual, and £4 in the course enclosure. A County Stand junior ticket for 16 to 23 year olds can be purchased for £12 on proof of ID and children under 16 can go into any of the stands for free if accompanied by an adult.

Tickets are available on 01904 620911 or can be bought on the day.

BUS SHUTTLE: First York will be operating a shuttle service between the Railway Station and York racecourse on Sunday. The shuttles start at 11am from the station and will depart from Knavesmire after the last race.

Updated: 09:58 Friday, August 31, 2001