Entertainment

Biggest horse racing events remaining in 2024

Published

2 years ago

September 3, 2024

As the year progresses, the horse racing calendar remains packed with significant events both in the UK and internationally. The sport has already delivered thrilling moments, and several prestigious races are still to come before the year ends. This article highlights the most important races remaining in 2024 and reflects on the key moments from events that have already taken place.

Highlights of 2024 so far

The year so far has already seen some of the biggest names in the sport make their mark, making waves in the world of horse racing betting.

Notably, State Man claimed victory in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March, a race that saw him rise to prominence after Constitution Hill ruled out to compete this year. This victory solidified State Man’s status as one of the leading hurdlers of the season.

The Grand National at Aintree followed in April, where I Am Maximus claimed victory in a race that once again proved to be a gruelling test for both horse and rider.

Royal Ascot, held in June, lived up to its reputation as one of the world’s premier racing festivals. Kyprios delivered a stunning performance in the Gold Cup, while Bedtime Story’s victory in the Chesham Stakes highlighted her potential as a rising star.

Upcoming major UK horse racing events

1) St. Leger Festival (12-15 September 2024)

Held at Doncaster Racecourse, the St. Leger Festival is home to the St. Leger Stakes, the oldest of the five British Classics. This event is a key highlight of the Flat racing season and often serves as a platform for three-year-old colts and fillies to prove their stamina over a testing distance of one mile and six furlongs.

2) QIPCO British Champions Day (19 October 2024)

This day is the grand finale of the British Flat racing season, taking place at Ascot. It features some of the season’s most prestigious races, including the Champion Stakes and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. The event brings together the best horses, jockeys, and trainers from across the globe, vying for significant prize money and glory.

3) The November meeting (15-17 November 2024)

As the National Hunt season gains momentum, Cheltenham’s November Meeting is a significant event in the jump racing calendar. Featuring races like the Paddy Power Gold Cup, this meeting is often seen as a precursor to the famous Cheltenham Festival in March.

4) Betfair Tingle Creek Festival (6-7 December 2024)

Sandown Park will host this two-day festival, which is a highlight of the early winter National Hunt season. The Tingle Creek Chase is the main attraction, often featuring the top two-mile chasers in the country.

Key international horse racing events

1) Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (6 October 2024)

Held at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, “the Arc” is widely regarded as Europe’s most prestigious race. It attracts the best middle-distance horses from around the world, competing over 2400 metres. The event is not just a race, but a cultural celebration, with Parisian flair adding to the spectacle.

2) Breeders’ Cup (1-2 November 2024)

Held at Del Mar Racetrack, the Breeders’ Cup is a top North American event with multiple Grade 1 races. Over two days, elite horses, jockeys, and trainers compete, with the Breeders’ Cup Classic often deciding the Horse of the Year. This event is a key highlight on the international racing calendar.

3) Melbourne Cup (5 November 2024)

Known as “the race that stops a nation,” the Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most famous race. Held at Flemington Racecourse, this two-mile handicap is a unique blend of top-tier competition and Australian cultural tradition. The event draws enormous crowds and is watched by millions around the world.

4) Hong Kong international races (8 December 2024)

The Hong Kong International Races at Sha Tin Racecourse is the climax of the global racing calendar. Featuring four Group 1 races, it attracts a stellar lineup of horses, jockeys, and trainers, making it one of the most important international race meetings of the year.

Conclusion

As we approach the final months of 2024, horse racing promises more thrilling moments. With historic classics and global spectacles ahead, intense competition and unforgettable performances are guaranteed. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, these events offer a chance to witness history, ensuring the year’s racing calendar concludes spectacularly.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

9 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Entertainment

Dinosaurs set to take over Milford Waterfront

Published

1 day ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PREHISTORIC FUN COMES TO MILFORD HAVEN

DINOSAURS will be roaming Milford Waterfront later this month as Dinomania brings a day of prehistoric entertainment to the town.

The popular dinosaur attraction will take over the waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three interactive shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

Each show will last around 50 minutes and promises plenty of audience participation, prehistoric facts, and family-friendly fun.

Before the ticketed shows begin, visitors are being encouraged to keep an eye out around Milford Waterfront, where Dinomania’s dinosaurs will be out and about during a free walkabout performance between 10:30am and 11:30am.

The walkabout will give families the chance to see the dinosaurs up close and enjoy some entertainment around the waterfront before the main shows get underway.

Milford Waterfront said: “Dinomania will be taking over Milford Waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three exciting shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

“Each show lasts approximately 50 minutes and is packed with interactive moments and prehistoric fun.”

Tickets can be booked through the Milford Waterfront website.

Entertainment

Hubberston Girls exhibition launches new space at Waterfront Gallery

Published

1 day ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A NEW exhibition exploring memories of growing up on a council estate has opened at the Waterfront Gallery in Milford Haven.

Artist Lynn Stuart is launching the gallery’s new exhibition space with her solo show, Hubberston Girls, which runs until Saturday, May 30.

The exhibition features a deeply personal series of works drawn and painted on brown paper. The material was chosen for its connection to everyday memories, including lunch bags and magazines wrapped in paper.

Once oiled, the paper becomes semi-transparent, allowing paint to be applied to the reverse and creating layered, intimate images.

The Waterfront Gallery is extending its opening hours for the exhibition and will be open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

A private view will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, and all are welcome.

The gallery is based in the Old Sail Loft on Discovery Quay, Milford Waterfront, Milford Haven. It is one of south west Wales’s leading art galleries, a registered charity, and home to the Wales Contemporary annual competition.

The gallery is run by artist volunteers who exhibit there regularly.