Brawling at races doesn't dampen racegoers' spirits

BY KELLY WICKHAM (kelly.wickham@sussexpost.co.uk)

THOUSANDS of people flocked to Goodwood Races in glorious sunshine for the opening Saturday event which was unfortunately spoiled by an incident.

The event, which marks the start of the season's 19 days of racing for the year, included eight races, but at around 4.30pm racegoers in the Gordon Enclosure were witness to fighting between several visitors, leaving six people injured.

A Goodwood spokesperson said: "Goodwood Racecourse was informed of a disturbance during this afternoon’s racing. The incident was dealt with by on-event security and Sussex Police were notified as a precaution.

Chivers wins the first race of the season

"On-event medical staff treated six people and the racecourse is supporting Sussex Police with its on-going enquiries.

"Goodwood Racecourse wishes to apologise to any racegoer who was affected by this incident."

Police have now launched an appeal for witnesses following the altercation.

A police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to the racecourse in Chichester at 4.47pm on Saturday after reports of multiple altercations at the premises.

"It is believed there were around 50 people involved, four people were taken to hospital with serious injuries and several others suffered minor injuries. The four who were taken to hospital have

since been discharged. The investigation is ongoing."

Anyone who witnessed the altercation is asked to report information online or call 101, quoting 880 of 05/05.

Alternatively, you can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Visitors were able to see how busy staff had been during the closed season with renovations of stands and a new cafe inside the March Stand.

The March Coffee Shop, located in the Richmond Enclosure, serves barista-style coffee, sandwiches, toasties, paninis, sausage rolls, scones and cakes.

Plenty of people turned up during the opening Saturday

The going was good to soft and soft in places and the first race saw Chivers winning, ridden by Joshua Bryan, with odds of 9/2.

The 3.50pm, fifth race saw drama when jockey Kieran Shoemark fell from Queen of Time with one furlong to go, leading to a stewards' enquiry. The results stood, with Nyaleti scooping the win.

Visitor Lawrence Andrews had been treated to the day by his partner, Kay, for his birthday. He said: "It's been a really great day here in the sunshine.

"I have had a few wins and enjoyed the racing. It is a shame that some people have ruined the day for others, but luckily we weren't there at the time and didn't have to see it.

"I really enjoy coming to Goodwood and it's been a lovely birthday treat."