National Hunt 296m1l

History 2k726j

Racing first took place at Fakenham on Easter Monday 1905 after the West Norfolk Hunt took a committee decision to transfer its race meeting from East Winch, near King’s Lynn. The sandy soil at Fakenham was deemed more conducive to Good going although the three-mile steeplechase in those days started in fields over towards Dereham, leading to the finish at the racecourse itself. In 1926, the first hurdle race was introduced to the course. In 1953, the first Grandstand was built and other facilities were improved. t732l

In 1965 the Fakehnam Racecourse Ltd company was formed and part of the racecourse was leased to develop a sports centre which featured a golf course, tennis and squash courts for the benefit of the local community. This brought some financial security for the course at a time when it was threatened with closure.

Royal Connections 1m2k3d

Racing at East Winch had enjoyed royal patronage from The Prince of Wales later King Edward VII. Located near to Sandringham, Fakenham’s patron for almost 50 years was Her Majesty the Queen, before she handed the role to Prince Charles in 2000. In 2002 the £1 million ’ Stand was named The Prince of Wales Stand and was officially opened by His Royal Highness that year. During his official opening speech, Prince Charles said he was “enormously touched to have been asked to become Patron of the Racecourse” and “also to follow in the footsteps of my great-grandfather”.

Apparently the Queen Mother also had a soft spot for the small and friendly racecourse, visiting in 1981 and again in 2000 during her 100th year.

Something for Everyone 2a5s6k

Fakenham is a small friendly racing venue with no formal dress code for any enclosures, making it ideal for families. It also hosts some Point to Point and Arab Racing fixtures each year and is popular for picnics. It is also home to a popular caravan park which helps maintain income on non-racing days.

Keep Going! f5os

The small left-handed circuit is only just over 1 mile, which has caused problems at times with jockeys riding hard for the finish only to hear agitated spectators shouting at them to ride on for another lap!

Important Races/Festivals 2621j

• March – Silver Cup
• May – Norfolk National