The Open at Cheltenham Racecourse

The Open 2011 is just around the corner. Head to Cheltenham Racecourse for three exciting days of horseracing action with highlights including Paddy Power Gold Cup Day.

With the new season well and truly underway, Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November 2011 will see three days of racing magic unfold at Cheltenham Racecourse when The Open comes to town.

Dubbed a major highlight of the British racing calendar, in addition to gripping racing action there will be 80 trade stands in The Open Shopping Village, plus a great atmosphere in the grandstands, bars and restaurants.

Friday 11 November 2011 will be Countryside Day, one of the most popular days of the season with a unique country fair atmosphere and a range of displays and demonstrations covering equine and other country pursuits.

The Thoroughbred Breeders Association will stage the ever-popular National Hunt Stallion display, with six races including the anticipated Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase over the twists and turns of Cheltenham’s unique cross country course.

Saturday 12 November 2011 will be Paddy Power Gold Cup Day, and for many racing fans this is the day when the jump racing season really gets into top gear. This event has been run every year since 1960 and in that time many of the sport’s greatest names have won the race, from Tom Dreaper and Pat Taaffe in the early days, to AP McCoy and Jonjo O’Neill in recent years.

There are five other highly competitive races on what is one of the best Saturday cards of the season, with plenty of Irish horses and racegoers making their way to Cheltenham and adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Sunday 13 November 2011, meanwhile, is The Open Sunday and will see another cracking day of racing which is popular with families and racing enthusiasts alike. The highlight is The Greatwood Hurdle, which sees the up-and-coming stars of the hurdling world take centre stage.

Whether you’re a hardened horse fan or have always been curious to pay Cheltenham Racecourse a visit, now’s your chance to get up close to the gripping action during this early season spectacular. Visit cheltenham.co.uk for full information and tickets.