Goodwood has a great year

Glorious Goodwood was again a major highlight of the racing year, with top quality horses battling it out in breathtaking finishes.

Victories by Henrythenavigator, Conduit, Yeats, Halfway To Heaven, Sixties Icon and Paco Boy demonstrated the depth and breadth of quality on display in 2008 and those visiting the racecourse should expect no less in 2009.

The good news for racing fans is that the Sussex course has extended its number of racedays to 23 for 2009, offering even better value to regular racegoers.

The new race fixture in 2009 will be on Monday May 25, which is a bank holiday and will be one of seven days' racing in May, with the season due to start on Saturday, May 2.

Managing director Rod Fabricius was more than happy with results in 2008, and, in particular, feedback from members.

He said: "We conducted some research with our members directly after this year's Festival and were delighted with their response.

"We are never complacent at Goodwood and will always strive to improve our standards.

"But it was extremely pleasing to be told by so many that they rate the Goodwood experience as the best in the country.

"I am sure other racecourses receive a similar reaction from their members but nevertheless we are very grateful for their continued support."

A year's membership at Goodwood in 2009 will cost 282 and with 23 racedays and 36 reciprocal dates it represents outstanding value.

The racecourse is offering its own unique Christmas present this year by offering to waive the normal joining fee for new members until the end of December.

The joining fee at Goodwood is normally 150 but this will be waived for new members until January 1, 2009.

Anyone interested in applying for membership should contact membership secretary Brenda Hamilton either by email [email protected] or by telephone on 01243 755029.