Crowds flocked to the ARC Middleham Open Day in North Yorkshire

The ARC Middleham Open Day returned on Good Friday with 12 racecourse trainers opening their yards to the public. The event had not been able to take place since 2019 due to the pandemic and it was clear people had missed the event with over 3,500 people attending this year. One of the highlights of the day was watching horses swim at Mark Johnston’s Kingsley House yard. On Low Moor their was an RoR parade and inter-yard activities.

Mark Johnston said: “People are here because they’re horseracing enthusiasts and because they wouldn’t get an opportunity otherwise to see a horse and get up close to it. I think it’s really important to engage with the public and let them see the horses other than on the racecourse, see what racing is all about.”

The event raised around £30,000 for organisers Racing Welfare who provide numerous help and support services for people working in or retired from racing. In 2021 Racing Welfare provided 1,261 instances of support to 149 beneficiaries in the Middleham area. 

Chief Executive of Racing Welfare, Dawn Goodfellow said: “It was fantastic to be back for ARC Middleham Open Day after two years due to the pandemic. We’re incredibly grateful to all of the trainers and stable staff who so generously welcomed the public to their yards and provided a great day out for all who attended. It’s a great opportunity for the public to see behind the scenes at some top racing yards, and an important day for the local community. Of course, the event serves as an important fund