Scarborough Races returns to Wykeham's Charm Park on Sunday

The first of two Scarborough Races meetings will be held at Charm Park near Wykeham on Sunday, March 1 <i>(Image: NQ)</i>
The first of two Scarborough Races meetings will be held at Charm Park near Wykeham on Sunday, March 1 (Image: NQ)
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A popular fixture returns to the racing calendar this weekend.

The first of two Scarborough Races meetings will be held at Charm Park near Wykeham on Sunday, March 1, promising another strong day of competition under the careful stewardship of the Yorkshire Jockeys Club committee.

Organisers say the opening Level Two Conditions race is already attracting attention, with Tag Man looking likely to perform well following a convincing win.

Red Opium and Morozov Cocktail followed him home that day, and organisers believe a repeat of that form would make Tag Man difficult to beat.

Sunset On Fire, another contender, has a great record at Charm Park having won at both meetings here in the 2024 season.

Other names to watch include Arthurs Seat, a recent winner at Friars Haugh, and runners making their point-to-point debuts, including Letthedustsettle and Cape Vidal, who both bring winning form from racing under rules.

The second race is the Tattersalls Cheltenham GB Pointing Bonus Young Horse Maiden for four- and five-year-olds.

Previous runnings of the race have helped launch future stars such as Miami Magic.

Among this year’s entries is Whatsupoxo, an unraced Maxios four-year-old trained by Tom Scudamore and purchased for €60,000.

Another debutant to watch is I’ve Got A Friend, a five-year-old Idaho who comes from the family of Grand National winner Nick Rockett.

Jockey Jack Teal has two promising newcomers in GN Jefferson and Talktotherocks.

Mr Teal has developed a strong reputation for his handling of young horses.

Helm Bar, who was fourth at Alnwick in December, looks the standout among runners with racecourse experience.

Race three is the Ladies Open, which could see the return of Tag Man.

If he runs and repeats his recent form, organisers say he will "take all the beating."

Red Opium and Blue Sans, last year's Grimthorpe Gold Cup winner, are also entered.

Ballydonagh Boy and Loughan are described as "prolific winners," though Loughan will need to bounce back from a fall.

Whats The Solution, a four-time winner last season, could also challenge if the ground dries out.

Organisers believe the Clark family’s entry Blue Sans could also feature prominently if Tag Man is redirected to the Men’s Open.

The Men’s Open could also see a run from Whats The Solution, with Loud And Proud and Sam Magee among the main dangers.

Organisers said Nephin Bog and Gustavo Getaway could improve with a change of scenery, having recently come over from Ireland.

The Restricted race may turn into a contest between Easy Rider and Driveondonn, both of whom competed at Friars Haugh earlier this month.

Job Well Done, a recent winner at Helmsley, will be on the shortlist if making a quick return.

Jardin Carre and Baby Chou are others to consider, with the latter showing promise on her return from a break.

The day's final race is the Open Maiden, with Jack Wooley, Willielle, and Kitman all expected to go well.

Kitman, trained by Fiona Needham, is seen as a horse with potential after showing promise on his British debut at Garthorpe.

The event promises a full day out for spectators, with gates opening at 11.30am and the first race off at 12.30pm.

Entry is £15 per person, with under-16s admitted free.

There will be a bar, refreshments, bookmakers, trade stands, and live music after racing.

Organisers are encouraging families to attend and say there is "ample parking and good viewing" for everyone.

Charm Park is located at YO13 9QU.

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