The Gold Cup Day at Sandown Racecourse is one of the most prestigious event on the mixed meetings calendar, and it is sure to hold attractions for racing fans of all preferences. Not only does it host a string of high-powered races with the toughest competitors from both sides of the racing spectrum, the Gold Cup Day also affords an opportunity to get up close with the season’s champion jumpers. In a special parade the over-achievers of the obstacle course allow punters and track tourists alike to behold them in all their glory. The day also features an award ceremony before the racing begins, crowning Champion Jockey, Trainer and Owner.
The races conducted on the Bet 365 Gold Cup Day include the Celebration Chase, the Gordon Richards Stakes and the Sandown Mile; the feature race of the afternoon however, is naturally the Bet 365 Gold Cup Chase.
Formerly known as the Whitbread Gold Cup – named after its sponsor Whitbread Brewers – this race has been run since 1957. It is held over a distance of three miles and five-and-a-half furlongs, includes 24 fences, and is open to horses five years and older. The race's previous sponsors include 'At the Races' holding sponsorship from 2002 to 2003, 'Betfred' from 2004 to 2007 and currently, since 2008, Bet 365. Among those making Gold Cup history is Trainer Fulke Walwyn, why trained seven Bet 365 Golc Cup Chase winners – Taxidermist (1958), Mill House (1967), Charlie Potheen (1973), The Dikler (1974), Diamond Edge (1979, 1981), and Special Cargo (1984).
