CHAIR’S WELCOME

WELCOME TO DAY ONE OF THE 2023 BOODLES MAY FESTIVAL - CITY DAY

Good afternoon,

I’m delighted to be able to welcome you back to Chester Racecourse for the first fixture of the 2023 season, and for the first day of the prestigious Boodles May Festival.

Today’s racing is set to impress, with 7 races on the card. Runners and riders will take to the track for the first race of the season at 1.30pm, the CAA Stellar Lily Agnes Conditions Stakes. At 3.15pm, the iconic Boodles Chester Vase Stakes will take place with a phenomenal prize fund of £120,000. Finally, the day will close with The Everyone’s Turf Handicap Stakes at 4.55pm.

I’d like to extend my thanks to today’s sponsors. First, our title sponsor of the entire festival, Boodles, who have been proudly sponsoring here at the world’s oldest racecourse for 10 years. Additionally, our style partner Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet who are home to designer brands just a stone’s throw away from the city. The TOTE who are present at the racecourse today offering their gaming services. CAA Stellar who have been great supporters of the racecourse for many years. Weatherbys, who play an instrumental role in British racing. The Budweiser Brewing Group who supply many delicious beverages here at the racecourse. Deepbridge, a successful investment firm who also call our historic city home. Finally, Great British Racing, who do amazing work for our sport. All of us here at Chester Racecourse are grateful for the support of all our sponsors.

Our next meeting is tomorrow, as the Boodles May Festival heads into the second and most glamorous day, Ladies Day I hope you’ll join us again to enjoy another day of thrilling racing here on the Roodee.

Ian O’Doherty Chair