A Day at The Races. July 19th 2008

This trip to the July course at Newmarket races, was organised by Robert and Maggie Parker with the assistance of Richard Delf.

We all met at the Burlington Hotel at 9.00am for complementary coffee and home made biscuits. The coach departed at 9.15am. During the journey , the party was well informed of the art of betting by Richard, a guide to the format of the race cards etc. by Maggie and an amusing insight by Robert of his involvement and stories of racing.

On arrival in Newmarket, we first went to the Home of the National Stud. A very interesting tour of the stallions yard ( Cockney Rebel  was there in his luxurious stable ! ) and covering buildings, seeing the statue of famous Mill Reef, and the mares and foals in the paddocks.

Before entry to the Premier enclosure, there was a superb picnic lunch of cold salmon and salad with dessert, all helped down with generous glasses of champagne !

The eight races provided superb entertainment and a great chance to lose money ! Naturally as always the bookies made their money and only a few came away with any profits !

A wonderful day out at the races at one of Englands most attractive and picturesque racecourses.The weather was kind and avoided the rain which seemed all around. Maybe this event can be made into an annual social event for the Haven Club.

   Pictures by Alan Spinks