Fontwell Racecourse

Fontwell Park Racecourse is notable for its unique figure-of-eight layout, making it the only jumps track of this design in the UK.

The overall length of the steeplechase course is approximately 3 miles, while the hurdles track is about 1 mile in length. Fontwell is a left-handed track.

The Fontwell chase course features twelve fences, while the hurdles track includes four flights of hurdles. The design of the course allows for a variety of racing styles, but it also presents specific challenges due to its sharp turns and undulating terrain.

The fences are generally considered to be straightforward, which can encourage competitive racing, but the tight nature of the course means that horses need to be agile and capable of maintaining speed through the turns.

Racing strategies at Fontwell often depend on ground conditions and race distance. The figure-of-eight layout can favor horses that are adept at navigating tight corners, allowing them to maintain momentum.

In longer races, particularly those over three miles, stamina becomes critical as horses face a stiff uphill finish. Jockeys often need to position their mounts carefully early in the race to avoid getting trapped behind slower runners, especially as they approach the final stages.

For softer ground conditions, jockeys may choose to race wide on the bends where the ground tends to be better, which can slightly increase the distance traveled but may provide a significant advantage in terms of traction.

The origins of Fontwell Racecourse can be traced to Alfred Day, who began training racehorses in the area in 1887. As he acquired more land over the years, Day sought to create a racecourse that would serve the local community.

With the support of local gentry, he obtained a license from the Jockey Club to establish Fontwell Park. The course was designed with a conventional oval hurdles track and a unique figure-of-eight steeplechase course, making it the only one of its kind in the UK.

The inaugural race meeting took place on May 21, 1924, and was attended by a large crowd. The first race was won by Gem, ridden by champion jockey Fred Rees.

In its early years, Fontwell hosted a mix of one and two-day meetings, gradually increasing the number of fixtures as interest grew. The racecourse quickly became known for its picturesque setting and well-maintained facilities, including gardens designed by Day himself.

Fontwell Park has been home to several notable events throughout its history. In 1949, Princess Elizabeth—who later became Queen Elizabeth II—experienced her first success as an owner when her horse Monaveen won at Fontwell. This horse was significant as it was the only horse jointly owned by her and the Queen Mother.

The course also gained recognition with the success of National Spirit, a dual Champion Hurdler who won multiple races at Fontwell and had a prestigious hurdle race named in his honor.

The course faced challenges during World War II when racing was suspended but resumed operations after the war.

Over the years, Fontwell has seen many top horses compete on its unique layout, which is known for favoring certain types of horses that can handle its sharp turns and undulating terrain.

In 1970, Isidore Kerman purchased Fontwell Park, and after his passing in 1998, his son Andy took over as chairman until selling the course to Northern Racing in 2002.

Since then, significant investments have been made to improve facilities, including the construction of a new stable yard and refurbishment of various areas within the racecourse.

Address: Park Racecourse, Fontwell Ave, Fontwell, Arundel BN18 0SY, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 1243 543335

Email: info@fontwellpark.co.uk

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