Under Jockeys’ Orders Returns To Jam-packed Coral Gold Cup Day At Newbury Racecourse

Following its resounding success in 2024, Under Jockeys’ Orders will return to Newbury Racecourse on Coral Gold Cup Day. The ‘Under Jockeys’ Orders’ initiative – a collaboration between Newbury Racecourse, the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) and Great British Racing – will put Britain’s leading Jump jockeys centre stage on Saturday 29th November.

The Coral Gold Cup stands as one of the most iconic handicap chases in the British racing calendar, drawing the best equine and human talent from across Britain, and often further afield. Once again, Newbury will become the most jockey-centric National Hunt meeting, with a host of interactive experiences and behind-the-scenes access planned across the day.

Those in attendance on Saturday of the two-day meeting will enjoy jockey autograph signing sessions before racing begins, while the popular ‘My Favourite Jockey’ stickers will be available across the Racecourse throughout the day. The Racecourse’s punters’ panels, parade ring tours and jockey talks will also all be available free of charge enabling racegoers to gain an insight into the inner workings of the sport.

In addition to the jockey-focused activity, the weekend will feature a range of entertainment and experiences for all those in attendance. As part of Newbury’s ongoing partnership with Greatwood Charity, Saturday’s racegoers will have the chance to meet retired racehorse Mahlervous and learn about the charity’s inspiring work supporting children and young adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Meanwhile, the Retraining of Racehorses parade will feature much-loved stars Coneygree, Barbers Shop, Smad Place, Paisley Park, Bristol De Mai and Dashel Drasher.

David Catlow, Managing Director of Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), said: “We are thrilled to be back at Newbury Racecourse again this year, presenting a wonderful line-up of former racehorses for the public to see. The RoR Parade showcases the variety of opportunities available to horses after they have retired from racing and highlights the importance of the support we offer.”

Around the Racecourse, visitors can enjoy hat and art stalls, live music, roaming bands, Coral-branded activations, various photo opportunities and a lively after-party on both the Friday and Saturday, with a DJ on both days and the ever-popular band 29 Fingers

performing live after racing on Saturday. What’s more, a free shuttle bus into Newbury town centre will be available throughout, giving racegoers one less thing to worry about.

Last year’s Coral Gold Cup Day achieved record racegoer satisfaction scores, with the raceday experience programme shortlisted for an RCA Showcase Award. The 2025 renewal is set to build on that success, combining top-class racing with a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for fans of all ages.

The Coral Gold Cup itself promises to be a fiercely competitive renewal, with exciting early entries including Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore’s Cheltenham Festival winner Myretown, Olly Murphy’s Resplendent Grey, who impressed in a Listed contest on seasonal debut, and Willie Mullins’ Blizzard Of Oz, another recent Listed winner.

Rebecca Curtis’s Cheltenham Festival and Irish Grand National hero Haiti Couleurs, is also expected to feature after winning the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle at the track last week, alongside Dan Skelton’s high-class chasers Grey Dawning and Protektorat.

Shaun Hinds, Chief Executive of Newbury Racecourse, said: “Following the success of ‘Under Jockeys’ Orders’ at last year’s Coral Gold Cup Day, we are thrilled to be putting the Jump jockeys to the fore again 2025. After all, they are at the very heart of our sport, and this initiative allows fans to connect with them like never before. The ‘Under Jockeys’ Orders’ activity is in addition to a fabulous afternoon of racing and a host of other activities and entertainment and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Newbury.”

Dale Gibson, Racing Director at the Professional Jockeys Association, commented: “The PJA is delighted to see ‘Under Jockeys’ Orders’ return to Newbury. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our members to meet fans, share their stories and highlight the teamwork and commitment that goes in behind the scenes. Last year’s event created a real buzz, and we’re looking forward to building on that momentum.”

Simon Clare, PR Director for Coral, added: “We’re excited to build on the success of last year’s Coral Gold Cup Day with an enhanced programme of activity and some outstanding early entries for the big race itself. The Coral Gold Cup is one of the jewels of the National Hunt season, and together with Newbury and the PJA, we’re proud to deliver a day that celebrates the very best of Jump racing – both human and equine.

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